
Class b .^01 

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FIRST REUNION 



/ 



'WOF THE-w— 



2th Iowa V. V. Infantry, 



/C^'-' 



vSHELD AT«, 



MANCHESTER, IOWA, 



.JtiONro^- — 



Tuesday and Wednesday, April 6th and 7th, 1880. 




r^UBUQPE, IOWA: 
TIMES PRINTING HOUSE. 

1880. 



FIRST REUNION 

— Ol? THE— 

I2th IOWA INFANTRY, 




The tirst Re-union of the 12th Iowa Infantry had its origin in Dela- 
ware County, in December, 1879. 

At an informal meeting of a few of the regiment, at Delhi, at 
whicli were present Lieut. Abner Dunham, Col. S. G. Knee, Major G. 
H. Morrisey and Lieut. C. E. Merriam, it was determined that a Re- 
union should be had, at Manchester, on the 6th and 7th of April, 1880, 
tliat being the anniversary of the battle of Shiloh. 

At this meeting the following Officers for the Re-union were ap- 
pointed, viz: 

S. G. Knee, President; D. B. Henderson, Vice President; 
Abner Dunham, Secretary; G» H. Morrisey, R. W. Tirrill, C. E. 
Merriam. Executive Committee. 

Then followed several meetings, at which Lieut. J. E. Simpson and 
others were present, with the Committee and Officers, and the Secretary 
issued the following Call : 

rWELEl H REGIMENT IOWA VOLUNTEER INFANTRY. 
Dear Comrade :— At a preliminary meeting of a number of the 
officers and members of the Twelfth Regiment, held at Delhi, Delaware 
Coantj, December 27th. 1879, to consult as to the propriety of having a 
Reunion of the surviving members, it was unanimously resolved that 
such meeting should be held. At this meeting. Col. S. G. Knee, of 
Colesburg, was chosen President, Col. D. B. Henderson, of Dubuque, 
Vice President, and Lieut. Abner Dunham, of Manchester, Secretary, 
who, together with Major Geo. H. Morrisey, of Delhi, and Mr. C. E. 
Merriam, of Hopkinton, were constituted an Executive Committee, and 
empowered to call a meeting of the Regiment at such time and place 
as they should deem appropriate. 



FIRST REUNION OF THE 



They have, accordiii<?1y^ determined to have the first meeting of the 
' Regiment at Manchester, Dehiware County, on Tuesday and Wednes- 
day, April (ith and 7th, next, at wlvich meeting your attendance is 
earnestly requested. 

It h;is seemed to those of us who have inaugurated thia movement, 
that such a meeting of tliose members of tiie ''Old Twelftli" as still 
survive, would be attended with much to interest us all. We ask you 
then to come and join your old comrades in arms, in this their first an- 
nual meeting, and in the renewal of old friendships and associations. 
Tliere will be here many of tlie othoers of tfie dilferent companies, and 
we most earnestly desire to see every member of the Regiment present. 

By order of Executive Committee, 

LIEUT. A. DUNHAM, 
Manchester, Iowa, January 23, 1880. Secretary. 

At a final meeting of the Officers and Executive Committee, all 
being present, the following Programme was adopted : 



PROGRAMM E 



TUEST>AY FORESrOOJV. 



Meki'Ing of the Comrades at the Tuains. 
General Hand Shaking. 




TUESDAY AFTERNOOJT, 1:30 O'CI^OCK, 



Assembly. 
Address by the President. 
Business, Visiting. 



TUESDAY EVENING, I'.iiO O'CLOCK, 

Assembly at City Hall. 

Phayer, by Rev. D. Russell, 11th N. Y. Infantry, 

Music. 

Welcome BY the Mayor, Hon. C. Sanborn. 

Response by the President. 

Oration, by D. B. Henderson. 

Five Minute Drill in the Manual of Arms. 

by Co. C. 4th Regt. I. N, G. 

Song.— "Rally Round the Flag, Boys," by All. 

Tattoo. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



W'EDNESDAY MORNING. 

Six o'clock, Reveille. 
Nine o'clock, Assembly at City Hall. 

Business. Visiting. 

One o'clock, p. m.. Banquet and Toasts. 

Visiting, and Escorting Delegates to the Trains^ 



Banquet at Fords Hall. 

PROGRAMME FOR BANQUET. 

WednesdcY, I o'clock, F'. M. 

Grace by Rev. Alvah Day fsr Manchester. 

Banquet. Music. 

"The State and the Nation— Mutually Dependent and Independent." 

Response hy Major E. M. VanDuzee, of St. Paul. 

•'The AumV and Navy— The Safeg-uards of all Nations. Response by Hon. 

R. W. Tlrrill, Manchester. 

'The Children of the 12th Iowa— God Bless them ! and may they live long 
to enjoy the Freedom that their Fathers, Living- and Dead, foug-ht to 
Secure." Response by Florence L. Dunham, Manchester. 

'Hardtack and Coffee— The Reserves from which we daily drew Nerve 
and Inspiration." Response by Capt. E. B. Soper, Emmetsburg. 



Music. 

"The Girls we Left Behind us— The only Power that has made Prisoners 
of us all." Response by Harvey Smith, Waterloo. 

"History op the Twelfth Iowa Infantry." Capt. W. L. Henderson, 
Leroy, Minn. 

"The Wives, Mothers, Daughters and Sweethearts of the Twelfth 
Iowa -None Suffered More, none Complained less. Our Flag- Their Flag- 
Their Homes Our Hearts." Response by Lieut. J. E. Simpson, Dubuque. 

"Our Gallant Dead— The Noble Heroes who. although passed to the Shores 
of the Great Unknown, still Live in our Memories, and are Cherished 
as among the best of our number." Response by R. P. Clarkson, Dcs 
Moines. 

Music.-"The Red, White and Blue." Chorus by All. 



FIRST REUNION OF THE 



COMMITTEES. 



KXEt;UTIV'K COMMITTEE. 

8. G. KNEE, President. D. B. HENDERSON, Vice President. 

ABNEK DUNHAM, Secretary. D. H. MORKISEY, 

C. E. MEKKIAM. 



IIKCEPTIOIT COMMITTEE. 

R. W. TIRRILL, W. II. GOODELL, JOHN OTIS. 



DECORATION COMMITTEE. 

MRS. E. ALLEN, MRS. F. BETHELL, MRS. A, M. SHERWOOD. 
MRS. E. HOAG, MRS. W. C, CAWLEY, 

MRS. T. W. ROBINSON, MRS. L. P. HUNT. 



FINANCE COMMITTEE, 

D. B. HENDERSON, G. H. MORKISEY, C. E. MERRIAM. 



COMMITTEE OF REGISTRATION OF MEMBERS, AND 
RESERVED SEATS AT CITY^ HALL,. 



C. E. MERRIAM, 



HARVEY SMITH, 



H. S. LILLAGAR. 



COMMITTEE ON TOASTS. 
R. P. CLARKSON, R. W. TIRRILL. 



COMMITTEE ON BANQUET. 



R. W. TIRRILL, 


S. G 


. KNEE, G. 


H 


MORRISEY. 


MRS. ABNER DUNHAM, 


MRS 


. W. N. BOYNGON, MRS. 


W. H. GOODELL, 


" F. BETHELL, 


" 


W. C. CAWLEY, 




H. A. MORSE. 


" A. M. SHERWOOD, 


" 


N. N, CORNISH, 




E. HOAG, 


" C. E. BRONSON, 


" 


C. H. DAY, 




L. P. HUNT, 


" T. W. ROBINSON, 


" 


E. R. CONGER, 




J. H. PRATT, 


" T. W. ROBINLON, 


" 


CHAS. BURNSIDE, 




M. BABCOCK, 


" M. F. LeROY, 


" 


H. HOYT, 




E. ALDEN, 


" H. C. GRAHAM, 


" 


E. G. RUNDELD, 




J. A. ABBOTT, 


" A. O. MOORE, 


" 


H. M. CONGER, 


A. S. BLAIR, 


MIS-:' .1. KINSJ.EY. 


MISS H. HOAG, MISS 0. MADISON, 


" N. BURNSIDE, 


" 


L. HONEY, 


L. ALLEN, 


" S. BAILEY, 


" 


N. PAXSON, 


H. TILTON, 


" L. McLAIN, 









TWELFTH IOWA V, V, INFANTRY 



THE GREAT REUNION. 



THE TWELFTH TOWA AT MANCH ESTEH. 



The tirst reunion of the surviving members of the veteran 12th regi- 
ment, Iowa Volunteer Infantry, took place in this city on Tuesday and 
Wednesday of this week. To say it was tlie most successful meeting 
conveys the faintest idea of the occasion. From first to last it was the 
most inspiring and enthusiastic gathering ever seen in Manchester. 
After years of separation, the men who, for more than four long years 
had endured danger and privation, and untold suffering, who had to- 
gether faced death on many a battle field, who, many of them liad suf- 
fered the horrible torture of starvation and disease in Southern prison- 
pens, who had at last, broken in health and prematurely gray, come 
back to those for whom they conquered, once more found themselves 
face to face, and clasped hand in hand. What the emotion, what the 
feelings of these men must have been, words ai'e powerless to express. 

From the first hour of their arrival here, the sense of their presence 
and what they had done and what they endured, seemed to pervade the 
entire community. The people of Manchester and of the country round 
about, rose, as one man, to welcome the members of the old 12th and to 
do them honor. The patriotic fervor of the old war days seemed to be 
revived. The women of Manchester, especially, worked with unfiagging 
zeal, and to their efforts, in a large measure, is due the glorious succes^ 
of the reunion. 

Large numbers of the buildings were adorned with "flags and 
streamers showing the national colors, rows of flags were stretched 
from The Press office to the Clarence House, and from Thorpe Bros. 
^o Lawrence & Lister's, and at the entrance of ^ he City Hall had been 
erected arches of evergreens, and the whole street was gay with flags of 
every description. 

The Decoration Committee deserves the highest credit for the man- 
ner in which they performed the arduous duties imposed upon them. 
The walls and chandeliers of the City Hall were fairly covered with 
most tastefully arranged evergreens and flags, among which were hung 
numerous pictures and mottoes, the whole combining to make a pleas- 



FIRST REUNION OF THE 



ing and spirited scene. On the proscenium of the stage hung the colors 
of the regiment, tattered and torn by storms and rebel bullets, and they 
were a most forcible reminder of the trials and vicissitudes tlirough 
which the brave men of the -'Old Twelfth" passed while fighting the 
battles of the union. 

In a recess in the scene at the back of the stage, was a large picture 
of General Grant, with a flag hanging on each side. On one side of the 
hall, near the stage, hung a picture of President Lincoln, and under it 
the words, "A government of the people, for the people and by the peo- 
ple.'' On the opposite wall was another picture of General Grant, and 
under it the words, "Let us have peace." In another place, surrounded 
by evergreens, hung a list of some of the battles participated in by the 
12th Regiment. The battles named were Fort Donelson, Nashville, 
Spanish Fort, Vicksburg and Tupelo. 

The session opened Tuesday afternoon with music by the Manches- 
ter CornHt Band," after which Col. Knee, who w^as booked for an ad- 
dress, introduced Col. J. J. Woods, the first commander of the regiment, 
saying that at that time it would be an insult to ask those present to 
listen to any other man. Coi. Woods spoke in substance as follows: 

MyFelloav Soldiers of the 12tii Ioava:— I do not appear be- 
fore you to [)erform any duty, or fill any place assigned me by 
your committee ; but with great reluctance, and at the earnest solicita- 
tion of Col. Knee, your honored president, I consented to occupy his 
place. I am not large enough to fill it, but I thank him for allowing me 
to talk about what 1 please, and as long or short a time as I please. 

But upon tliis occasion my thoughts can only wander in one direc- 
tion. I am thinking of the time when, at the bugle call of our country, 
we came forth— farmers from their farms, mechanics from their shops, 
merchants from their counters, lawyers from their clients, doctors from 
their patients— enrolled ourselves, nearly one thousand strong, for the 
defense of our country. We recall the process of organization and 
drill; the sojourn at Benton Barracks, where death, by disease, began 
his inroad on our ranks; the bombardment of Fort Henry and the siege 
of Donelson, where our ranks wxre first thinned by rebel bullets. I re- 
call the moment when Buckner, of Co. A, the first man we lost in battle, 
fell ; how cold the following night was; how. the next day, we took the 
rebel rifle pits, and how, upon the third morning, the shout of triumi)h 
arose and i)assed from rank to rank, at beholding the white flag dis- 
played from the rebel ramparts, and Gen. Simon B. Buckner turned 
over his fortifications to '^Unconditional Surrender" Grant. 

But oh, how vividly is pictured u])on my brain the events of 
eif^hteen years ago to-dav. How we remember that Sabbath morning, 
when, instead of being summoned by the church bell to the worship of 
the livino- God, we were summoned bv tiie roar of cannon and the rattle 
of musketry to the work of carnage and death. You remember how 
hurriedly we formed our ranks of war and marched to the front, meet- 
in"- on the wav hundreds retiring to the rear with tales of woe and dis- 
aster; but you pressed forward and fearlessly took ui) your position in 
the front line of battle, and right nobly did you maintain it, repelling 
every charge or assault of the enemy and driving him back in confusion, 
until the troops upon your right and those on the left of the 8th and 14th 
Iowa gave way and left you to defend yourselves as best you could. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



You remember how you undertook to fight your way to the rear and 
sent deatli and destruction into the ranks of the enemy until many of 
your comrades were killed by your side, and I and many others fell 
wounded on tlie field of battle; and the only alternative was surrender 
or annihihiLion. If all had stood their ground as you did, the disaster 
of that day would never have been recorded. How sadly I felt when 
you were marched to the rear, while I, with wounded and dead com- 
rades, lay upon the battle field, enclosed by the foe. I recall how the 
rebelVieh. llardee, after some pleasant conversation, tried to elicit 
from nie facls in reference to our troops that might be of value to the 
rebel army ; and how a Fexas subaltern pointed a ])istol at my head and 
tlireatened to blow my brains out ; how I liad heard rebels boast of the 
brave deeds they had done that day, and how they would complete 
the great victory the next day; how, during that night, 1 listened to the 
groans of the dying, growing less and less as time wore on, and tiieir 
departed spirits returned to God who gave them. In the meantime, tl)e 
shells from our gunboats were bursting around us. At length the 
morning dawned, the morning of the day upon which, according to 
their boasts of the evening before, the enemy was to complete his vic- 
tory. Jiut soon I heard ihem tramping to the rear, and the cry from 
the rear. "The cavalry are getting on onr fianks!" and then the addi- 
tional cry, "'Jiuel has come!" >Soon I looked forth and joyfully beheld 
the fing of my country waving in the breeze, and gradually approaching 
nearer and nearer, i )h, how my heart leaped for joy ! Never did that 
fiag look so beautiful before. It gave assurrance of victory to our 
army. To me it was a resurrection from death unto life, for I would 
luive died in the rebel hands had I not been rescued. It told me that I 
sliould again see home, and wife and children. It told me more : It 
told me that I should live to try ag:ain the gage of battle with the enemy 
of uiy country, ui>on other fiekls of action. Oh, glorious fiag of my coun- 
try ! forever inay it wave over a happy and united people. 

But time would fail to recount the further history of our regiment 
— your release from i)rison, the reorganization of the regiment with 
dinunished numbers, the capture of Jackson, the siege of VicKsburg, 
Tupelo, and tlie various other engagements in which you bore a worthy 
part, bufiice it to say, that in all these engagements you proved your- 
selves to be the bravest of the brave. On the battle fields of the South, 
you won imperishable renown, whether engaged in the grand charge 
that won the day, as at Donelson, or staying the tide of threatened dis- 
aster, as at Shiloh. In marches and in skirmishps, in sieges and assaults 
in iittuck ar.d defense, by tlie heroism with wliich you faced death and 
danger in every form, by your intelligence and love of c vri r/ you 
proved that yon possessed the characteristics of true s ildieici in the 
highest degree, and yoni" noble aciiievements constitute a rich treasure 
in which all have an interest. 

My comrades, to-day we meet togetlier as the widely scattered mem- 
bers of a common household, after long years of sepMration. We come 
together under that dear old fiag, dear to the heart of every member of 
the regiment. We come, not now at the rallying cry of Vjattle, but to 
recall and contemplate the common joys, the common hopes, the com- 
mon toils, the common trials and sufferings through which, as mem- 
bers of the same regiment we were called to pass. We come with the 
most grateful and tender affection for the honored dead of our regi- 
ment, whose places among us are vacant to-day, and who went to their 
long rest from the battle field, from the hospital, from the prison pens 
of the South, and, more recencly, from their homes widely scattered 
throuji'iiout the land. They went down gloriously unto death, that the 
Kepnblic might ascend u]) gloriously unto life. To-day we miss the 
light that beamed from their countenances ; they are no longer among 
us, but— 

"On fame's eternal camping gi'ound. 
Their silent tents are spread." 

For them we can only shed the silent tear, and weep with the fathers 



10 



FIRST REUNION OF THE 



and mothers, the wives and children, whose hearts overflow with sor- 
row for their lost loved ones. 

My comrades, I have already passed the meridian of life, and am 
goin<; down llio wt^sterii declivity, but 1 assart; you that time has not 
diininished my lo\'e for liberLv, or country, nor dimmed my alfecLiou- 
ate regard for you, who, with me, si)ent some of your best years in their 
defense; and though the wounds we received and the hardsliips of the 
service, cause us some pain and atliiction, we bear it all with cheerful 
fo'-tilude, knowing that the necessities of the times demanded the 
sacrilice. And when 1 speak of my country, the idea in my mind is not 
that of any pent ui) Utica ; it is not conliued l)y municipal walls, nor 
limited by State boundiiries ; my country is not Ohio, though I w:;s l)orn 
there- it is not Kentucky or New York, although I was educated within 
their borders; it is not tue noble State of Iowa, though 1 married my 
wife within her i)recincts, and two of my lovely children he buried 
within her soil : it is not the beautiful land of Kansas, wliere I now 
dwell • but my country is wiiere floats that glorious Hag. and when for 
the last time I shall behold its starry folds, next to my hopes of a better 
life up yonder, will be the desire that my country may be great, an<l that 
union, peace andprosperisy mayprevail throughout jUI lier vnst borders. 

And now that we have met beneath that dear old dag, grasped the 
hand of friendship, heard the strains of martial musu;. renewed our 
devotion to our common country, when we part i shall return to the 
duties and avocations of life, in uiv far-off Kansas iiome. with renewed 
courage and a thankful heart that I b ive been permitted to see your 
faces again . 

At the conclusion of Col. Woods' address, Col. 1). B. Henderson 
moved that a committee of live, of which Col. Woods siiould be chair- 
man, be appointed by the President to prepare a plan for a iiermanent 
organization of the surviving members of the 12lh Regiment, with a 
view to the continuation of these pleasant reunions ; said committee 
to report Wednesday morning.' Carried. The president appointed as 
such committee, J. 1). Cole, D. B. ilenderson, 11. J. Wayter and J. E. 
Simpson. 

Several letters of regret were read by Secretary Dunham, whicli are 
given below. 

Stuttgart, Germa'ny, March loth, 18S0 

Lt. J. E. Simpson, Dubuque, Iowa. 

My Dear Sir.— Through my son Otto I received your htter dated 
2oth of February, inquiring for my address. Therein I see -althcmgh 
so many years have elapsed since I was amongst you— that yon si ill 
think of me. This sign of remembrance is unspeakably touching and 
gratifying to me. When in America, last year, it was my great wish to 
come "once more to Dubuque and call and see any of you, but circum- 
stances called me back to F^urope. 

Not to be able to be personally present at your reunion on the nth 
of next month is a source of great regret to me, and theretore I beg you 
mv dear sir, to be mv interpreter on that occasion, and tell my dear 
brothers in arms— oiiicers and members of the old 12th Iowa, that tlie 
days spent amongst them, the remembrance of the love and kindly 
feeling of all is deeply engraved in my memory as of the happiest time 
in my life, and neither time nor dista^ice can ever weaken my attach- 
ment to the boys in blue. 

Mv love to each of the dear ones present ; three cheers for the dear 
old 12th Iowa, and the Union forever! Long life and happiness to all 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY, 



11 



the rem'uning ones. Thoughts of regret for those culled ol5;. To you 
yetesijecitilly, my expressions of regards. 

Ever your old Major, 

S. D. BRODTI'.Kdx. 



Des Moines, Ioava, Marcli 30th, IBSO. 
AiJNKii L>L'NiiA3i, Secretivry, Manchester, Iowa: 

My Deal- Sir: - Your favor of March loth, inviting me to be present 
at the reunion of the 12th re.nineut of Iowa Volunteers, is at haml 

It woukleive me persoiuilpleasure to accept, did not my official er- 
gagemenls prevent. ^ ^v^iai ci. 

of (h?^/."tf *'■ v'*'" '*l^ l->^' i^^^'^ illnnnnates a bright page in the historv 
ot tlie •ptaie You did well by your country in the hour of danger, and 
I ::m lieartily tlianktul ihaL so nviny of vou are spared to enioy tl-e 
u.essinn;s oi^ i)e;ice. \yoii by your regiment in connection with the other 
soldiers or Uie Liepublic's grand army. 

vn,„^^;-%^''!^^ t^Mch and all he spired for many years to meet around 
•y«.7/''^^^^^ '''^''^'^^ ;'."*' t^Slil^ your battles over, which in the days of 
Jbul-t were stern realities. 

rnv in'iri'S,'^ ^'?/' ^'7i\'""tee for the invitation, and again regretting 
my iiuibiiiLy to attend, I ain, o » &> 

Yours truly, 

JOHN H. GEAR. 



Sparta, White Co., Tenn., April 2, 1880. 
To tl>e Members of the Twelfth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, at their Re- 
union, April 6th, 1880: 

s.>o.S''\-M''''np4;.";^^f^f IT^''*'^ ^ ^^""^ "' consequence of my inabilitv to re- 
snond 111 person to the many urgent invitations I have received from 

^.ea^'e,^' ban w'n? w.ll" "'^' ''-V'^^"^ '^ "•^' ^''^''^'^ '''' >-«^'^' teunioiUs 
gieatei than I can^vell express by means of an ordinary letter As 

Sil^Yd^'-tincirs n^"^ ^'T'' ' '''? I'' '^^•^^^"^' ^" "^« se?vL of our old 
it/ I fhorVtv I h ,-; h'"'^ ''''" T}^ ^T^"" "'^^ P'^^t by l)ermission of those 
inauthoiity. lha\ebeen conhdently expecting such permission but 

?mXveTo';;';vH,^''^''l'^^'*^ '■^-r^' ^"«' ^"^l^sl would have to start 

,e hV tn i,;^ -^ ' *"'■'''''■ ^^ b^""'^^'' ''«" "" the 6th instant. I am com- 

PtfP- i /,, nlrV'" "'-^ ''^.'^•''^t^ ='"'^ congratulations in the form of a 

vo, r HPvr ""•"*. ^"^•^^' '».v disappointment as best I can, hoping that at 

Eterstir-cess. '" "'^ ''^"'■^' "' ^'"^ P'"^'""^ "^'^^ ^^ rewarded with 

ma Jl\*^ ^^"-^ ^•*'V l^'^^'f selected for your reunion could not have been 
w H EVi'^'^'-^l^ ^''"''"- ''"t' ^ '^"^ "'^'^ ^^^'"-^^ especiallv to the tinie of 
aa,y iu)i vet to die splendid record you made for yourselves durino- the 
war, as your orntor no doubt, will say all that can be said on this'^sub- 
•Jn?ihp''.lSliT-^'''''''''-n'™'^^''''^'iththe history of the Iowa troops dur- 
lowfsold eA^^^^^^^ ''??"' ^ think to the claim we make that the 

the mil vib PonTn vff"^^ ^""i ^"^.^[^ '^^ ''''''^'^^ ^"^ that the record of 
the State ""^"'P^'^® favorably with that of any regiment sent out by 

w.„ATfT^"^^ •^'' "^y recollection of events it was the rule durimr the 
\^^ai, at the various entertainments of nyrotecbnical displays etc held 
in the neighborhood where we chanced to be encamped or bWouacked 



12 FIRST REUNION OF THE 



to reserve :it least n part of the front seals for the ]2th Iowa ; hut, comi- 
ratles, if I could be with you I should want to talk of something: aside 
from our war record. 1 should esteem it a i)rivile<j;e to meet and <rieet 
you all once more, and lo tell you of the love and friendsiiip I liavt; 
cherished for all of you durini? the years tiiat have jtassed since we 
separated, and to assure you all that "as I now look back over my life's 
history I lind in it notliing of wliich I nm half so proud as I am of tlie 
fact that during the dark days of the rebellion, while we each, in our 
humble w^ay, sou<irlit to manifest by our acli>)ns somethin*:: of the love 
and devotion we felt for our sh>i'ious country ; tha^ it was my privik^i?e 
and honor to connnand for so loiiff a time the brave, nobler ;^enevous 
fellows wiiose names are inscribed on the rollsof tliel2th Iowa infantry. 

May God bless and prosper you all, and keep your hearts true to 
yourselves and to each other, as they w<n-e true to your country during; 
tlie years when I so proudly thought and spoke of you all as '"my boys." 

May your reunion be a successtul and happy one, and v^ hile yon 
are havinj>; a glorious crnod time together, nniy you eacii have a kind 
thought for me, and believe me, e;u;h and all, 

Your true friend and comrade, 

J. H. STIBBS. 



Olatiie, Kansas, Alarch ;50. 1880. 
Lt. a. DtiisinAM, Sec'y : 

Dear Comrades : — Permit me, through you, to expi-ess my hearty 
ai)proval of the reunion inaugurated l)y some of the members of the 
"old i2th," and ho[)e it a grand success. 

Nothing would be more gratifying to nie than to be able to meet 
my old comrades and friends on the occasion of this reunion. 1 know 
it will have a tendency to awaken memories of the camp, the m irch and 
the lierce conflicts that have slept for years and have almost ])assed 
fronnueniory. Some of those scenes are as beautiful in imagination as 
they were in reality, and others are Slid, very sad. Maiiy of our bosom 
conjp:iiiions, brave, jioble fellows, have long since fought their last light. 
It will be sad to miss them when you call tlie roll I hope you will imt 
report me "absent without leave." I always tried hard to do my whole 
duty. I am now on detached duty, and hoi)e (';ol. Knee will excuse nsy 
absence this time, and at your next meeting I hope to be able to meet 
"with you. I would like to grasp you all by the hand and commingle my 
congratulations with those who now survive of the old 12th. My good 
wishes attend you. and may the many nol)le deeds of her dead heroes be 
emulated and indelibly recorded in the memories of her living heroes. 
Living heroes, I say! for were Ihei'e any in the service of our country 
entitled to the name, it was the bloody 12th. "Hurrah, boys, hurrah; 
down with the traitors and up with the stars !" Stand by our cotmtry. 
With kind regards for all, 

Truly Yours, 

S. E. BUECTI. 

Late Adjutant 12th Iowa Vet. Inft'y. 



St. Paul, Minn., March 2G, 1880. 

IvT. Abnek Dunham, Sec'y., Manciiesteu, Iowa: 

My Dear Sir : — I have just received back from Manchester, Minn., 
a letter which I wrote you on receii)t of your first letter enclosing tiie 
circular announcing the reunion of our old regiment. The wrong di- 
rection, through a blunder of mine, will. 1 trust, serve to excuse what 
may have seemed to be a lack of courtesy in not replying to your letter. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



13 



I have aJso received your letter of the 16th inst., and have delaved in 
replying until now in the hope that I might see mv way clear to re^snond 
favorably and accept the duty assigned to me. " respond 

to fm-pt?rt> ^^o^e^^^i'' to say, that a variety of circumstances compel me 
o?casio1 ?Pfir,Sf 1."'%°^ '""^'^'"^ ^^y old friends and comrades on the 

The recollections of my armv service and the friendshios then 

With my sincerest wishes that you may have a most pleasant and 

Very truly and sincerely yours. 

E. M. VxlNDUZEE. 



Xenia, Iowa, March 28. 1880. 
Lt. Abneu Dunham, Manchestek, Iowa : 

Dear Comrade: Yours of the 18th ult. is received It will be im- 
possible tor me to attend the reunion on the etlfand 7th of A ril I 
hereby send greetings to my old comrades hoping that it mav vet be 
datloiri'fTbSs m!' '^'^ """" "^"^'^ ''^ ^^^^"^ severs the ti'e'in^asso- 

lives^'u'e^ve\"fwlfnw'? four years of the best part of our 

T?^^i.;ll ^ ''^ t ' ™^ ^^-'^'t- I i-ealize that we are fast passing awav 

Eigl teen years more and the survivors of tbe 12th Iowa who sbravel^^ 
stood to then- guns on the morning of the (5th of Ai r 1 ISfS can be 
counted on one^s fingers. But when we are gone I trust that wlnt we 
did on that eventful day, and what was done on eVery other d^.v for the 
cause ot the Union, will be held in grateful remembmnce fore^r 

Your comrade, 

J AS. L.THOMPSON. 



JSTiOBRARA, Xeb., April 4, 1880. 
Dear Friend Abner and the Tried Old Comrades of com- 
pany F : 

The near approach of the reunion of the gallant old 12th on the 

eei^Vl'Irs' '^Z^^'-f^ '""^^ '^'V^ ^^P"^^ ^^^"^''' ^^"^^ a klseot eigh: 
Seetln- thon') ' 1^ ^^^^"^s before us, prompts me to send my wouls 
tiave1fhn?tin H?If c/innot be with you in person. As memory 
come un h^Po-n fv'^ '^T^ Sabbath morning, all the incidents seem to 
f^? r J\? leguhir order. The reveille, the roll call, the squad for the 
Sdn'Je ;/'!", Tt?^"'^ breakfast of bak^d beans and bi.^cu?t which we 
brave n^iddJtP^^^^^^^^^^ T w"^"f, ^""^' ''°'^ ''^*'i^'' «e"t us to the front to face a 
Diave and determined toe, the roar and rattle of the musketrv and the 

hope thi'oh on,^:]^^ ^'''^\ '^" '^^™,"^h "^^'^ l""g day the loigfifct'^ .1 St 
live^sea Pd thP r .^^^^^^ f-'^ comrades made, tlie falling of the dead, Whose 
Sd h'?rmv p n^^'^^S''''' the cries of the wounded, to whom relief 

Siofomilp^/?5f''-^/^'''"'\^'^2"°^^l^ scene of carnage, 

ail go to make up a picture which we can never forget. 

^atht?PH'?nltlp^".^''.T"y ^®F^ ^^''^ marked their flight, and you 
gatheied together to talk over the incidents of life in camp and on 




many a luird fought field, we instinctively call to mind those who can- 
not -fntwi the vl^ll call here. We will cherish t jeir inemones I ^vlsh 
1 couM be with yoii. I want to see the old tanuhar taces ana 
see how much they nave cl.anged since the time when we used tx) staiid 
uu in a row at roll call. Do you renieuiber some ot tliose tiosty J loin- 
n.rs Ji.e t e inexorable ()rderly would get us out to say -here- and 
ows me ot- lis that slept too sound to gives us tnue to complete oi r 
loilc'ts would rush out in undress uniform, and getting behind our hie 
lea ei s t e watchful eyes of said Orderly might not 'lif^>ver"S sig- 
nify our presence and then dodge hack to our tent to get a little more 
sleei) which that everlasting drum had banished from our eyes. 

When we think of all that eighteen years have brought to us of 
good or ill, of tlie cliange in tiiought or sentiment which those >eais 
have produced, the many .jueslious that "'"stnecessarily arise toi so u- 
tion in a government like ours, the duty we, owe it and ihe duty t ovyes 
to every citizen, however humble, white or black do we ti'l Y jea f e the 
grave issues that are looming up in the near future ^ J^^^^ S, 'n^ 
oad men coming into power, liave we seen tliose pnuci les whicli so 
many of your luimbcr gave their liv.s to establish gradually being un» 
Sennined,and all that was accomplished then, now ^^^^^^^^^^ «veTthr. w r- 
If you do realize all tliis it does behoove us to now vote as we toug it, 
and for all time to come to settle the question now and tore\ei , Uuit 
tlirou-'iiout all our broad domain no citizen ot tins land, howevei pool 
or imu ible he may be, no matter what his ^^^^^^^^^^J^l^^^ y^^'^^^^l 
bill shall have all the rights of an Anierican, to live wliee he may w^^^^ 
to vote as he shall please, and to enjoy unmolested t''« t^"\^^ J.'^ f,,^,^!/: 
Until that time comes you, dear comrades, have a work to tlo, ana at 
this ti e w en you meet together to renew the pnst, t seems to me not 
o It uf .lace to "ive this your thought, liow to still bring our beloved 
cmu.tr out ot the bondage of sectional strife, corrupt y;;l»«nces and 
allthe evils of ignorant and wicked men. J>et us all then laboi toi 
this emiiiat we may have a country that shall be free m tact as it is m 
name. 

.Vnd now wishing I might see you all face to face and grasp yotir 
hands and hoping as they?ars go by to meet you and give you the as- 
svuancefoivl.u welfare which nnd that your present meeting 

will be full of pleasant memories in the future, I subscribe myselt 
One of your number, JOHN BREMNER. 

BUKLINQTON, Iowa, April 5, 1880. 
My Deaii Comrades: 

It is with regret that I write vou. I would so much rather be pres- 
ent ill grasp the friendly hand once more. Nothing %vould Plfase me 
better than to be present; and I had made nrrangemenis to that eitect 
untirto-dy Things hav'e taken a change that prevents me. and will 
tl ei4f re have to content myself withanticipntion which is s.id to be 
mSre nleasant than participation, lint be that as it may, I wish you a 
ealanrcoming together, knd that you will think of the absent ones. 
I know, however, t^iey are lield sjicred in the memory of each. 

I remain your comrade 

ALBERT J. ROE. 
Co. F, 12tli Iowa Vet. Vol. Infantry. 



El, WOOD, Iowa, April 4tb, 1880. 
Mr. Ar.NER Dunham: 

Dear Sir and Comrade of the Grand Old 12th Iowa Infantry:-Yoiir 
call t-(S a reunion of the members of the old 12th I have read. I was in 



hopes that I could be with yon. But as I cannot be present in person I 
expect to be in spirit and full harmony. ' 

It is now eighteen years since that memorable conflict at Shiloh 
where many of the 12th gave up their lives, and many more were 
wounded for life, while a prison hell waited for the lives o"f manv more 
of the boys of the gallant Twelfth, and as I think, I ask the question 
have they died m vain? and have the gallant members who lived 
through four years of terrible war, suffered in vainV God forbid. 

And now, dear comrade, if Col. Woods is present, take him by 
the hand for me. Also iny old captain. Major VanDuzee, and all in 
general, for business is such I cannot be with you. With love to all I 
will close. Yours, a lover of Union and Liberty. 

GEOKGE TESKEY, 
Company 1, 12th Iowa, V. I. 



Pboria, 111., April 5, 1830. 
Lt. Abnek Dunaam, Manchester, Iowa: 

Dear Sir:— I regret to have to write to you that I cannot be with 
you to-morrow and the next day, at the reunion of the grand old 12th 
I am suffering with rheumatism and cannot undertake the journey 
i lease remember me to all who may be present, and say that I regret 
very, very much that I cannot be with them. 

Very sincerely your friend and comrade, 

J. W. GIFT. 



TJELEGRAM. 

^ ,, ,, „ Dubuque, April 7, 1880. 

Col. 8. G. Knee: 

I cannot express my disappointment at not being with the boys 
Unexpectedly, important business prevented. Give my regards to the 
glorious old Twelfth at the banquet to-day; and for any regimental or- 
ganization count me in. Hope the hardtack is better than at Don- 
elson. 

J. W. TAYLOK. 

It was moved and carried to tender a vote of thanks to the old com- 
rades who were unable to be present, for their kind letters of remem- 
brance. 

In consideration of his great age, and the fact of his being in Ger- 
many, so far away from all his companions in arms, a motion was car- 
ried that a committee of two be appointed to draft a letter to Major S. 
D. Brodtbeck, expressing the kind wishes of the regiment, which letter 
was signed by all the members present. D. W. Eead and Geo. H. 
Morrisey were appointed as such committee. 

Manchester, Iowa, April 6. 
Dear Major S. D. Brodtbeck. Stuttgart, Wurtemberg, Germany:— 
We, the undersigned members of the Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer 
Infantry, m reunion assembled, have just had read to us by Lieut J E 
Simpson your kind letter, which was received with repeated cheers 
We thank yon for the expressions contained therein of unrliminished 
love not only for the services of our dear old regiment, the Twelfth 
Iowa, but also for our glorious Union, for which we as citizens and sol- 



16 



FIRST HE UNION OF THE 



diers offered our services. It does our liearts good to know that though 
far from us, still you give us and the cause for which we together fought 
so warm a place ill your al't'ecliou. aud for which we each tender you 
our reui'wed i)l('dge of friendship and love. We rejoice to see from your 
])h()tograph, wliich has been passed from hand to hand, that time has 
dealt so kindly with you, and hoping that at some future reunion we 
shall have the iileasure of grasping your hand in friendly greeting. We 
remain, dear Major, your atfectionate comrades in arms. 

Signed by all the members present. 

On motion, Drum Major McKee and Fife Major French were in- 
vited upon the stage to give some of their soul-stirring music, while 
Color Bearer (Jrannis held the colors of tlie regiment over them. At 
the close of this exercise, there was nproarous applause and cheering. 

The Eldora Cornet Band then favored the audience with some very 
fine selections, and were followed by the Dubuque Battalion Drum 
Corps, whose spirited martial music awakened the greatest enthusiasm 
among the old veterans. The Dubuque Drum Corps consists of four 
lifes, five snares and a bass drum, and though we are no judge of this 
kind of music, we thought they were hard to beat. 

Ko other business coming before the meeting, adjournment until 
evening was the next in order. 

After adjournment, many of the old veterans remained in the hall, 
visiting and recalling old times, and "lighting their battles o'er again," 
It is needless to say that this afternoon visiting was most highly en- 
joyed by the old comrades in arms, who had become so widely scat- 
tered over the country, and who were now re-united for the first time 
since they were mustered out of service. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



17 



THE FOLLOWING IS THE ROLL OF MEMBERS PRESENT. 



riELD AKD STAFF, 

J. J. Woods, Montana, Kansas, W. H. Finley, Hopkinton. Iowa. 

Myron Underwood, Eldora, Iowa. S. M. Frencti, Denver, Colorado. 

G. H. Morrisey, Delhi, Iowa. 



COMPANY A. 



S. R. Edg-ing-ton, Eldora, Iowa. 
C. M. Kimkle, Eldora, Iowa. 
Sumner Kemp, Alden, Iowa. 
K. E, Kellogg-, Alden, Iowa. 
N. \V. Zieger, Eldora, Iowa. 
G. H. Cobb, Eldora, Iowa. 
W. P. Haywood, Lyons, Iowa. 



A. E. Webb, Eldora, Iowa. 
Seth Macy, Marshalltown, Iowa. 
Davi(; S. Martin, Iowa Falls, Iowa. 
Tom Bell, Eldora, Iowa. 
D. A. Armstrong, Liscomb, Iowa. 
K. P. Clark son Dos Moines, Iowa, 
J. R. C. Hunter, Oskaloosa, Iowa. 



Robert Morris, Oskaloosa, Iowa, 



COMPANY B, 

W. C. Earle, Waukon, Iowa. John D. Cole. Lansing-, Iowa. 

R. Wamopler, French Creek, Iowa. A. J. Rodgers, Waukon, Iowa. 

H. R. Andrews, Brush Creek, Iowa. 



COMPANY C. 



D. B. Henderson, Dubuque, Iowa, 

S. S. lilanchard, Postville, Iowa. 
A. K. Ketchum, Clarion, Iowa. 
H. J. Grannis, Fayette, Iowa. 
Emery Clark, Elgin, Iowa. 
S. Gifford, Douglass, Iowa. 
Henry Clark, State Center, Iowa. 
K. D. Williams, West Union, Iowa. 
John Delezene, Douglass. Iowa. 
F. W. Moine, Strawberry Point. Iowa> 
W. L. Henderson LeRoy, Minn. 
Geo. L. Durno, SpringviLe, lo. 



P. R. Ketchum, Windsor, Iowa. 
D. W. Reed, Waukon, Iowa. 
R. Z. Latimer, Fayette, Iowa. 
G. E. Comstock Dubuque, Iowa. 
G. H. Latimer, Maynard, Iowa. 
N. H. Spears, Mill, Iowa. 
William Hamlin, Oelwein, Iowa. 
James Stewart, West Union, Iowa. 
S. C. Beck. Maynard, Iowa. 
H. C. Curtis, LeMars, Iowa. 
Jas. Barr, Algona, Iowa. 
Geo. Hazlet, Butler Centre, Iowa. 



COMPANY D. 

M. W. Whiten ack, Waterloo, Iowa. E. B. Soper, Emmestsburg, Iowa. 

Hiel Hale Ft. Madison, Iowa. Maje Rowan, Vinton, Iowa. 

L. M. Ayers, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 



COMPANY E. 



Harvey Smith, Waterloo, Iowa. 

S. J. Crawhurst, Miller's Creek, Iowa. 

C. V . Surt'us, Bristow, Iowa, 

D. Craighton, Geneva, Iowa. 
J. S. Margretz, Hitesville, Iowa 



C. D. Morris, LaPorte City, Iowa. 
A. B. Perry, Lester, Iowa. 
John Elwell, Chicago,;ill. 
Charles Cook, Lester. :owa. 
T. M. Early, Bristow, Iowa. 



Thos. Domoss, Bristow, Iowa. 



COMPANY F. 



H. M. Preston, Fort, Dodge, Iowa. 
R. W. Tirrill Manchester, Iowa. 
J. J. Eaton. Edgcwood, Iowa. 
Nelson Ralston. LeMnrs, Iowa. 
Samuel Kaltenbach, Manchester, Iowa. 

W. A. W. Nelson. Hazlcton. Iowa, _ , _ 

Robert L. Weeden, Nugent's Grove,Iowa. Jos. S. Girton, Ilazleton, Iowa. 
T. R. McKee, Manchester, Iowa. W. H. Goodell, Manchester, Iowa. 

Geo. Kent, Oelwein, Iowa. Abner Dunham Manchester, lo. 

Jas. F. Lee, Clay Mills, Iowa. Hiram Kaster, Manchester, Fowa. 



J. E. Eldridge Edgewood. Iowa. 
Joshua, Widger, Waterloo, Iowa, 
Josiah Hofhill, Wood Center, Iowa. 
Ed. Corell, Greely, Iowa. 
Thos. McGowan, "independence. Iowa. 
H. W. Mackey, Maynard. Iowa. 



; IS FIRST BEUNION OF THE 

ii 



COMPANY G. 

J. E. Simpson DubiKiue, Iowa. 

COMPANY H. 

Alex. S. MoConnoll, H ■pkinton, Iowa. A. T. Garner. Paifcy, Io%\ra. 
S. G. Knee, Colesbuif? Iowa. Jas. Evans, DulnKjue, Iowa. 

H. J. Playter, Bristow, Iowa. D. Morelaiul, Earl\ ille, Iowa. 

Jos. Franks, Ward's Corners. Iowa. 

COMPANY I. 

M. D. Nagle, Dubuque, Iowa. 

COMPANY K. 

[I. R. Mathis, Omaha. Nebraska, H. C. Merriam, Hopkinlon, Iowa. 

C. E. Merriam, Hopkinton, Iowa. Godfrey. Bolley, Hopkinton, Iowa. 

P. J. Morehouse, Wiiithrop, Iowa. 



NAMES OF WIVKS PRESENT. 

Mrs. G. H. Morriscy, Delhi, Iowa. Mrs. Sam'l Koltciibaeh, Manchester, Iowa* 

" S. K. Edg-injiton, Eldoi-a, Iowa. " Hiram Kastcr. .Manchester, Iowa. 

" R. P. larkson, Des Moines, Iowa. " W. H (ioodell, Mancliester, Iowa. 

" G. L. Durno, Spring-ville, Iowa. " J. E. Eldridg-e and Daughter, Edge- 
" Hiel Hale, Ft. Madison, Iowa. wood, Iowa. 

" .1. E. Simpson, DubU(iue, Iowa. " T. R. MeKee, Iowa Fiills, Iowa. 

" R. W. Tirrill, Manchester, I wa. " D. Morehmd. Karix ille, Iowa. 

" S. J. Crawhurst, Manchester, Iowa. " Joseph Franks, Wai-d's Corners, Iowa. 

" Abner Dunham, Manchester, Iowa. " C. E. Merriam. Hopkinton, Iowa. 

" W. L. Henderson and Daug-hter, Le- " G E. Comstock, Dubuque, Iowa, 
Roy, Minn. 

SOLDIERS' ^VIDOWS. 

Mrs. Wm. A. Morse, Manchester, Iowa. Mrs. Abner Campbell, New York, N. Y. 



TUESDAY EVENIInG. 



The hall was again packed at an early hour in the eA'ening, fully 
one thousand persons being unable to gain admittince. After prayer 
by Kev. D. Russell, of the 11th N. V . Infantry, f:>llowed by vocal and 
instrumental music, led by G. E. Comstock, of Co. C, Hon. C. Sanborn, 
the Mayor of the City, delivered the welcoming address. 

Mr. President and Gentlemen of the Twelfth Iowa Regi- 
ment : 

It is my pleasant duty in behalf of t\w citizens of Manchester, 
to extend to you otiicially, a most hearty welcome to the hospitalities of 
tliis town, on this annivei'sary occasion of the l)]oody battle of Shiloh, 
in which you bore so conspicuous a part. And I welcome you, not only 
with all the meaning that along time custom has attached to the cere- 
mony of granting the '•Freedom of the City" to returned conquerors, 
but with the added weight that should and does attach to that ancient 
rite, in conseciuence of your having been engaged in a more noble war- 
fare than lliey — inasmuch, as the rescuing of your beloved land from 
tlie hands of ignoble traitors is more memorable than conquering a 
foreign foe. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



19 



Once asain I welcouiB you, and trust that the memories of the 
duties whicli you have so well performed in the past, will ever be your 
support in the future battles of life. And I assure you that the mem- 
ory of your achievements will ever be held sacred, not only by us but 
also by the free and liberty loving people of the entire nation. 

To this Col Knee, the President,made the following happy response- 
Mr. Mayor ; 

As President of the Reunion Association of the 12th Retrinient of 
Iowa Volunieers. it becomes my duty to thank you, and through you. 
the citizens of Manchester fur the kind and hos|)itable manner in which 
you hnve welcomed and entertained us, the surviving members of the 
Iowa Twelfth. 

Sir. we have come t<igether from nearly every quarter of this great 
nation ; we have ieft our several vocations, in almost every sphere of 
lift', the shop, the counter, the desk and the farm, at the instance of our 
('(unrade, your esteemed citizen, Lieut. Abner Dunham, who took tiie 
ini.iitive stejj, and to wiioiu lielongs the credit for the success of this, 
our first reunion, and have met in your beautiful city for tlie puri)ose of 
reviewing in memory the vivid scenes of the march, the camp and the 
battle held— events that l)y us cm never be forgotten. 

Sir. wp feel that it is well that we again li ive met, and lived ovf^r 
again the events of the past ; but none of such events have afforded us 
a livelier pleasure than the fraternal manner in which you and your 
people have received us. You have made us feel that Manchester is 
true and wnaii hearted, and has received us with an affection akin to 
that with which she greeted her own boys returning from the held of 
strife. 

And now, sir, when we separate and de])art for our respective homes 
we will carry with us the consciousness that the happiest events of our 
lives look plac^i at our reunion as the guests of the good i)eople of 
Manchester. Agitin sir, we return you and your people our sincere 
thanks for your kindness and hosipitality. 

The President then introduced to the audience, Col. D. B. Hender- 
son, of Dubuque, who then delivered one of the grandest, most eloquent 
and pat) iotic orations that has ever been delivered at any point since 
the war. His glowing tribute to the grand old Twelfth Iowa, of which 
he was ;in honored member, being a Lieutenant of Company C, until 
he lost a leg on Corinth's bloody field, was a grand peroration from be- 
ginning to end, and kept tlie audience in a continual roar of laughter 
and applause. 

lie spoke as follows : 

HENDERSON^S ADDRESS. 



My Dear Comrades : 

What words are fitting for this occasion ? What can the lips say 
when the heart only can speak ? This occasion calls up such a past, 
that the emotions rise like a swollen flood to drown the voice. The eye, 
the hand, the heart, have the only voice for this sacred hour. I would 
not speak to you thus formally were I permitted to consult my own 



20 



FIRST BE UNION OF THE 



heart. No ! I "vvoud rather take your hands in mine, and looking into 
your face, read there all that we have seen, have suffered, have lost, and 
liave won. I would banish the voice and only feel. 

There was an hour when we did not dare to feel; wlien we would 
not permit the voice to tremble. In the presence of the awful hour that 
lirst called us together; in tiie i)resence of events that over-topped liu- 
inau ties and human loves our lips liad to be comiyressed to steel, our 
tears were turned to lire and our huarts to stoiie. J5ut to-i:ight. in the 
presence of the peace that we iielped to secure, we niay recall the sad 
events of the past; we may remember partings that never had a meet- 
ing; we nuiy think of faces that cannot meet us here; and in doing all 
this even a tear may fall upon a soldier's cheek and leave im stain. 

Is this a meeting of friends i* No 1 It is more than a meeting of 
friends. Are we simply friemls V We, wlm while smothering the ten- 
derestemotions, sprang to arms at the same moment, ruslitid ;o encoun- 
ter tlie same sufferings, the same dangers, and tlie same glories, and 
were inspired by the same grand motives V We, who fought under the 
same flag, slept in the same tent or in the s ime trendies, buried the 
same couu'ades and united in the same wild, rapturous, triumphant 
shout of victory ? My God! are we only friends? We are lirolhersi 
If you have one brother you have up there and here nearly a thousand. 
Whatearthly ties can be'dearer. truer, or stronger tliau th(tse tliat bind 
us together V We were plighted in the face of death : we weie united at the 
altar of liberty ; our marriage bells were the voices of cannon, the groans 
of the dying and the last tattoo. This is the meeting of brothers, tried 
and true, alter a parting of flfteen years. 

In September, 1861, when it liecame apparent that the war would 
yield to no ninety-days attack, wlien it became evident that the South 
really intended to destroy this governmeiit — fair as it was — the men of 
theTwelfth Iowa hastened toDnbiupie to nuisterinto the defence of their 
country for the longest period that Abraham Lincoln -God bless him— 
asked; namely three years. Then and there, !)S1 officers and nuui pledged 
themselves to their country. These 9HI men were not soldiers! The 
name soldier api)lies to the" ])aid vassals of a king. But these men were 
not soldiers; they were citizens of the ile))ublic, wlio had but one 
thought, that their country was in danger, and if it fell they must l»e 
buried beneath its ruins. In ISBI, ihey came from their farms, their 
forges, their schools and their wnrksliops, all with one common tlu)ught, 
that our country was in danger, and we had a duty to jierform. 

I repeat, they were not soldiers. They were patriots — iritriots in 
all the deei). broad, thrilling meaning of that word. They did not go 
to fight— to kill, they went to defend, to save. 

I will show you what kind of men the Twelfth was made of by tell- 
ing you a story of one of its number, a private soldier. 

On the 30th of May last, in the presence of eleven men of the !2LI\ 
Iowa, I told this storv of ;)ne of the members of the regiment, and I 
give it as a true one— and God knows how true it was. On the train 
coming here this morning, f met auotiter who was knowing to the facts 
which I am about to relate. The lad I referto was not Americsin born. 
He was a simple country lad. 

In September, 1861, as I was out recruiting for my company, I 
stopped at a farm liouse, and while eatinsr dinner I was talking about 
the war, Miien this ycmng man dropped )iis knife and fork, and said in 
Ijroken English, "I'go too." \Ve shook hands, and were comrades from 
that hour. That man never failed to report for duty. Never misserl a 
roll-call, ('omrades, you all remember the march to Ft Henry, how we 
got wet through and had to sleep on our feet. Cliarley Larson, for that 
was this lad's nanu% was unlitted for duty by tha,t marcli. His hands 
were shaking and he was as white as a sheet; and when we started for 
Ft. Donelson, Dr. Finley said (Jharley was not fit to go witli us, and 
must stay behind. But Charley said he must go, and coming to me 



begged that I let him go, but I told him no, that he was not able 
But wiien we got within sight of Ft. Donelson, who should we 
see coming up in tiie rear of his company but Char.'ey Larson. Seeino- 
lie was bound to go, the boys took iiis luggage and he marched 
on, sick as he was, up to the breastworks of Donelson. He was not 
able to stand up, the Surgeon truthfully said, and yet he marched after 
that flag until it was carried through the abatis and planted on the 
inner works of Donelson. He was so weak that he trembled like a 
leaf shaken by tne wind, and yet he foughtby your sides, and sent un- 
erring bullets to rebel hearts at Donelson. 

After the carnage of Shiloh we missed Charley. We supposed that 
he too was a prisoner. But not so. Four days after the battle we heard 
ot a wounded man, with a ligure twelve on his cap, being in the cainn 
of the 3d Iowa. It was Charley. The poor fellow had been struck at 
the terrible moment when the 12th found itself surrounded on every 
side by rebels and death. We carried him to his tent in our regiment 
where Dr. Finley and myself worked over him for several hours trvine 
to hnd the place where the bullet lodged. We at last found it in his 
spinal column. I watched over him, in his tent, for several ni-^hts 
praying that his life might be spared us; but when he spoke, his only 
words were, ''It's all right, it's all right." I rubbed his cold hands and 
begged him to tell me if he suffered. Ue would look steadily into mv 
eyes and slowly repeat his only answer, "It's— all— right." Just that and 
nothing more. He saw I was mourning over his death; he wanted me 
to know and testify that he was satislied "it wasallnght." Dr Finley 
often came with me, and tried to save him, but it was of no avail. There 
came a moment when the eyes did not see me; they were lookin^ip and 
away beyond all comrades here. The lips moved but uttered no sound 
tor me, but angels neard the words, "it's all right, it's— all— riglit. " 

And such were the men who composed the rank and file of the 12th 
Iowa I can t say all I would wish to of the 981 men who weiit in the 
12th Iowa. 

I want to say a few words about our original field officers. Our Colo- 
nel, who sits here among us to-night, came from his far-off home on the 
oorders ot the Indian Territory, for the especial purijose of visiting with 
his old comrades. Col. Woods, the brave and trained soldier, was a 
graduate ot West Point, a man, calm, kind and true, his bosom undis- 
turbed by an unworthy ambition ; the humblest, sim]dest soldier never 
tearedto address him, and always met a kind look and gentle answer, 
and that, too, even if the soldier forgot the formal salute. When other 
regimental commanders could only see stars, our Colonel's heart was 
tuu ot love for his men, and he saw only stars on the flag of our glori- 
ous Union, and which he felt must be kept there. (Comrade of his men, 
as well as commander. Such a man was Col. J. J. Woods. 

Our Lt. C.olonel is not able to meet with us to-night. Within the pnst 12 
months, he has been mustered out, but if he were on earth, nothing would 
have kept him from this reunion. He could not handle a regiment and 
was in no sense a fighter, but in every sense a patriot, and lacking in no 
qualities that made a true man. Where Lt. Colonel Coulter is^buiied 
lies a loved comrade, a model citizen and a noble man. 

Our Major— God bless the little Dutch Major— from top to 
toe a soldier; from heart to hand a soldiRr; a natural drill mas- 
ter. How well we idl remember his "Voll in levt ving." I never had 
much regard for military tactics, and used to watcli the Major and learn 
tr(nn hun. instead of the books. The Major noticed this, and said to me 
one flay: 'Lieutenant, have you ever yet learned how toget thecounter- 
f!^r^ ri;om the pickets and take their gun away from themV" and I replied. 
iNo. He said, "Come with me on the picket line to-night, and I will 
show you how to do it. " I shall never forget that time. I have a scar on 
my right leg to-day, which will bear witness to the point where the Major 
ends and army regulations begin . [Laughter. ] 



22 FIR SI' BE UNION OF THE 



Yes, wo were a well-officered regiment. Our chaplain had some good 
streaks. Even Hart Sj)ears would sometimes take off liis liat to Chap- 
liin El)erliart. llarL liked him because he laughed so when a conceited 
J.ientenant goteuchcred on a lone hand. And the boys would say that 
our Chaplain would het higher and ''stay'' lon}.er with a "bob-tail flush/' 
than any cliaplain in tlie Western Army. [Laughter.] 

I regret to see, from your general laughter, that so many of you 
know the meaniug of those apt army words. 

I would like to say a few words about our Company officers, but there 
is too long a list to nanae them all, and none should be omitted. We had 
thiriv line officers as free of offence; as any sent from any other State. 
Duty, not promotion, was their ambition. They were free from petty 
bickerings and unseemly jealousies. As a regiment, your only quarrels 
Avere with ihe enemy in front of you and underarms. 

Comrades, what was it that called us together in 18G1? Was it gaiuV 
Was it the ^13 per month 'i^ No. You had many a line officer who, 
when elected by his comi)any, did not know the difference in rank or 
pay between a ser;.ceaiiL and line officer. What was it. then, that called us 
to^e[iierV;ro mive the republic. To save a land that was at once the cr;idle 
aiid throu'e of liberty. That you might be,in the hand of God, the thunder- 
bolt to destroy that dark creation of hell, human slavery. That tlie 
shameful sLain might be forever removed from the bright flag of free- 
dom. That tlie nmther— black or white— might hold her i'^fant on her 
bosom without dread of separation. To make tlie Declaration of Inde- 
pendence a casket of jewels, instead of an aggregation of infamous lies. 
You s|>rang to arms to secure a strong and free government V To ensure 
f i-ee schools and i)lentv of tlie'n . To ensure equality to all and bondage 
for none. You found that Washington and the fathers had but half 
done tlieirwork, when they shook from our limbs the shackles of Britain 
;ind left untouched those "that bound the slave. You found that the 
cursed system they left to vou was destroying your country. It was every- 
where with its slime, its cruelty, its corruption and its unending de- 
mands and relentless tryianny. Ithadgagg d and llirottled the great 
high tribunal of justice, the Supreme Court of the United States. It had 
planted treason in everv room, bureau and department of the Execuiive 
office, while Congress, the great, law-making i)nwev, was a, boiling seeth- 
ing sea of rebellion . You saw it was high time for blood and death, and 
so you went. 

Comrades, how I Avould like to retrace the path we trod. I remem- 
ber how well we left Dunleith The night was cold and bitter. The 
Mississippi ran cold with floating ice. We were piled deep into the hare 
cars, and while tears were flowing on the other side, we sang the Star 
Spangled Banner, and sent its glorious sounds floating to 'the hills of 
Iowa. I can hear it yet. Brave and strong were your liearts That was 
the start you made. 

From there we went to St. Louis. Who of us has forgotten it? 
Here W;^ were first baotized with death. Here our brave boys fell like 
grain before the sickle. Almost one in every ten o" our numi)er never 
fot <'arther than St. Louis, and never returned to Iowa. In a few short 
weeks, 70 of our number were dead. Measles, pneumonia,, smallpox- 
relentless allies of the South— cut through our lines, and filled a grave- 
yard with the fallen of the 12th Iowa,. We went there a young, we left 
there an old regiment. Then came the marching orders, and we went— 
many of us the rounds of the hospitals, to take our last farewell of our 
sick comrades. Many of vou remember this. And you remember, too, 
the Sisters of Mercy. How they watched over and nursed our brave 
bovs. How they fulfilled their last re(iuests. How they promised to 
send to their far-off homes, the last letters, the photograplis. the little 
keepsakes that should soften the grief of those who mourned their death, 
and how faithfully those promises were kei)t. Amid sobs, and groans, 
and cries, these sisters walked their rounds watching over the suffering 
as though they had been their brothers indeed. I wish I had the tongue 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



23 



of an angel and long ages in which to speak all their praise. They were 
oar sisters, and well we remember how gentle, kind and true they were. 

At last we left St. Louis, and thence passed amid scenes that were 
dramas— nay, tragedies rather — of death, of danger, and of victory. To long 
marches, to trenches, hard tack and field hospitals. How rapidly a(t 
follov>^ed act. scene succeeded scene. To-day in the mud of Smithland, 
to-morrow our camp fires lighted up the beauties of Tennessee, and lens 
of thousands of white tents, spreading far and wide, present a picture that 
srives promise of peace and rest, and makes no hint of danger or of death. 
The next day 15,000 rebels laid down their arms, at the imperative com- 
mand of "unconditional surrender." Men of the 12th Iowa you were 
there ! 

[Here the Col. told some very amusing stories, portraying the raids 
of the boys on the hogs, poultry, etc., whicli were highly relished by 
the boys present, they being cognizant of the facts. He continued :] 

At the storming of Ft. Donelson, the 12th lost its first man in battle, 
Buckner, of Company A,— shot in the eye by -i rebel sharp-shooter. 
This was before we charged. JJo you remember how we gathered about 
the strong but quivering Buckner as he lay there our first bloody offer- 
ing to freedom V No sounds escaped your lips, but oh ! there were oaths 
registered then and there, in ma ;ly hearts, oaths that only found utter- 
ance^from tlie musket's mouth, and amid the roar and carnage of battle. 
You'remember the sharp-shooters of the enemy, the grape and canister 
that mowed ou; ranks, the brave men falling by the wayside. But this 
old flag was planted on the breastworks by the brave rTrannis, and 
though men fell on every hand, the 12th would notyield an inch and that 
flag would not go down. 

Yes, you were a fighting regiment. You proved it at Ft. Henry, 
at Donelson, atShiloh, and atCorintli, at Jackson. Vicksburg. Brandon, 
Tupelo, White River, Nashville, Brentwood Hills, Spanish Fort, and 
twelve minor battles. You were in 23 engagements, 112 days under fire, 
marclied 2,670 miles, always advancing, and traveled in nil 13.809 milep. 
You lost 95 men killed in battle, had 204 ott'cers and men wounded, and 
217 died of disease. Of the 981 men wlio went to the field, 801 sustained 
some injury by battle or disease. Youhad382men captured at Shiloh, 
who went to rot and die in the prison hells of the South. Yet, in the 
face of these disasters, when your term of service had nearly exjiired, 
when your wives and children, your parents, brothers, sisters and friends 
were longing for your return, at the appeal of Abraham Lincoln, who 
said, '"Boys don't leave me yet," you re-enlisted, on the 5th of January, 
1864, to see your country through the storm. 

Fellow citizens of Delaware county, Y'"ou who are here, let me ask, 
do you owe these men anything? Do you know whnt and who these 
men are V They went through fire and smoke, through deatli ;nd he 1 
for you. They stood, — after three years of privation and danger and 
suffering— at the vei\y doors of liome, with loving wives, their old ])ar- 
ents, and dimpled faced babes, holding out their arms and crying for 
joy at their near return. Yet, even then, at your call and that of their 
country, they turned their backs on all the delights of home, and plunged 
once more into danger and death — for you. Do you know these men V 
Their hands are rough and hard, perhaps, but oh, how steady and true 
they were, when treason raised the standard of rebellion and you and 
your liberties were in danger. Do you know that those men were a 
part of that immortal Brigade at Shiloh, which with the brave 8th Iowa, 
held back the very centre of the rebel attack V Do you know tliat they 
mowed down regiment after regiment, and drove back column after 
column, not for four hours as the reports have it, but for eight deadly 
hours, thus giving our army night, night giving ns Buell, and Buell 
giving us victory ? They were taken prisoners, but the army was saved 
and victory won ! Captured they were but holding their posts! Cap- 
tured they were, but with their flag flying, their guns in their hands and 
their bullets in rebel h arts ! Then followed the rebel prisons : Selma, 



24 



Fin ST BE UNION OF THE 



T-iVidpffa AtUnitu, Libbv and Macon. For six months these men, 
SoSepTi^ e^^ kept rotting and dying in rebel pris- 

ons The guests of Southern chivalry, but rotting and dymg, rotting 

Ah ' friends, I see before me heads of snow, that would be like the 
vw^no^hiif tor sufferings that we can never know. Fellow citi- 
7ens' vcnrsTe\^"ore you all t a^^ left of an Iowa regiment that served 
?S fo\?r mid 4e-half years and never lost a single battle. It was in 
lu^ntv three en-a-ements and was never l)eaten. It was under deadly 
Se one huiidied^aud twelve days and its Hag ever advancing. That flag 
iOike 1 country torn, but here, like its regiment, there are but 
fr. 'ments left of it. But what man, what section, what king or couu- 
t-f(^^?e insult a shred of that torn and tattered flag! There it hangs 
?omr Ides Itill our flag. It is silent and torn but what glorious memo- 
nSfiwakens! L^ "« all the past ; look at 

it treason, it warns you for all the future ! 

Mv comrades I could scarcely begin talking to you, and it seems as 
though iTui lot'stop . I can nor do you and your brave deeds justice. 
Uut let me -'sk vou to do one thing. Do not forget your dead comrades. 
Theiibmlies lie here and there, on hill-top and in valley, but let them 
not be t?i-ot Si When you Would make of your boys men on whom 
tl?eRepubUc may safely rest, tell them of your comrades dead-A>,D 

AVHY TIIEY DIED. 

vvhPi. von lake a ballot in your hand, and politicians ask you to 
manSa'spiritot^oinpromise and conciliation, think of your dead 
comrades— AND why they died. . „ . 

When an attack is made on human rights, and the exercise of that 
freedonfXch belongs to an American citizen, white or black; think of 
your dead comrades— and why they died. 

Thev are still with us. The thought of them remains to keep us 
^teul S tiom country, and maintain it pure and free. One of them 
T wi 'n lirwho w^^^^ i>s in every battle, on every march, by every 

camu tiirSiioStbj^^ ^ho lay in every prison and sut- 

fCd tnfm everv wonnd,the grandest man and truest comrade of us 
ill-ABRAlIAM LInI 'oLN. Be his memory embalmed lu our hearts 
forever. , , ^ ^, , 

And now comrades, good bye. We may not all »;^^^l^^£!^.^^/^f,"i^,^,^ 
Reunion. A few more gatherings '^^^^\ .^^^^ last membei of the^^^^^^^ 
Tnvvi TJp<rinieut will be mustered out. But, until uien, uojs, jruivvctiu 
guWeS-e! "Lirch ! And when the last muffled drum is sounding may 
some loved voice repeat over our ashes : 

"On fame's eternal camping: g-round 
Their silent tents are spread. 

The proceedings of the first day were then closed with music by the 
Band. 




TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 25 



WEDNESDAY MORNING. 



This morning ii committee of five was appointed to prepare and 
l)resent a plan of permanent regimental organization ; also a regimental 
historian. Several letters from absent members were read, all bearing 
the deep regret of the writers for their inability to be present. Among 
them were letters from Maj. Brodtbeck, now of Stuttgart, Germany, 
Gov. Gear, Col. J. H. Stibbs, now of Tenn.,Adj. Bnrch of Kansas, 
Maj. E. M. Van Duzee of St. Paul, J. L. Thompson of Hardin county, 
and J. T). Baker of Minn. 

A permanent organization of the Regimental Society was effected. 
110 members being present. Col. Samuel G. Knee was elected President; 
Capt, E. B. Soper, Vice President; Abner Dunham, Secretary and 
Treasurer. It was decided to hold Reunions every four years. 

D. W. Reed was appointed Historian of the Regiment, to be assist- 
ed by R, P. Clarkson and Lieutenant Cole. 

R. P. Clarkson, Colonel W. C. Earl, Lyman M.Ayers, H. C. Cur- 
tiss •uul Colonel S. R. Edgington were selected as the Executive Com- 
mittee. 

Comrades Sim])son and Comstock made motions for the publication 
of the proceedings of this Reunion, with a view to sending a conv to all 
members of the Regiment not present at the Reunion. These motions 
were amended by Colonel D. B. Henderson with amotion nominating 
G. E. Comstock, of Dubuque, a committee to superintend the publica- 
tion of the proceedings, with instructions to mail copies to all members 
desiring them. 

After numerous speeches by members, it was finally decided that 
Reunions be held every four years. 

At this point the treasurer of the city of Manchester, presented in 
the name of the City Council, the sum of $-50 towards defraying the 
expenses of the Reunion. 

Here the old drum and fife Majors of the regiment appeared on the 
stand and i)layed the same old tunes under which tlie regiment march- 
ed in the days of its full glory and pride, and the boys were again wild 
with enthusiasm. 



26 



FIRST BE UNION OF THE 



WEDNESDAY AFTERNOON 



The tables for the Dinner were placed In the room formerly occu- 
pied by the Reform Club, over the store of L. A. Loomis. The ladies 
of Manchester— who never do anything by halves— had there spread a 
banquet that might tempt the appetite of an ancliorite. The tables 
were decorated with evergreens and llowers, and the universal verdict 
was that Manchester had fairly surpassed herself in the preparation of 
so magnificent an entertainment. It is needless to say that, after grace 
by the venerable Rev. rxlvah Day, the members of the glorious 12th did 
ample justice to the repast. 

On returning to the assembly hall the beautiful poem written by J. 
W. Shannon, Esq.. of Elkader, was read by Col. 8. R. Edgington, of 
Eldora, who recited it with appropriate spirit and feeling. It was lis- 
tened to with proflonnd attention and challenged ""cheers'' and "tears'" 
from the delighted audience. Here it is : 

CHEERS FOR THE LIVING, TEARS FOR THE DEAD. 



To the Twelfth Iowa Boys, at Manchester. 

BY .J. W. SHANNON. 



Loud cheers for boys who wore the blue ! 

While all our hearty weleomes brig'htlj'^ bui-n; 
Loud Cheers, for girls, so sweet and true, 

That thro' sad years awaited their return. 

God bless the hero's hearth and home ! 

Where happy children coo on crippled knees. 
And fond embrace must ever come 

Thro' rug-ged vet'ran's awkward empty sleeve ! 

God bless the cause for which ye bled, 

Whilst dearest, bravest comrades nobly died. 

And keep its standards far ahead 

Thro' all the teeming future's battle-tides. 



The cause of slave— the cause of Man !— 

True cause of God. that breaks each shackling chain, 
Whereby a king, or priest, or clan 

May manacle a hand or heart or brain. 



O, hush tJiie voice that dares pi-oclaim 

Ye merely "Greek '{gainst Greek" in gory least !— 
That Donelson's and Shiloh's flame 

But shone on battle of the angry beast ! 

Eternal honor to your names, 

In record, wreath, and cheers, and lofty song- ! 
Not that ye slayed for soldier fame— 

Ye stood for endless liight 'g-ainst monstrous wrong. 

Ye stood on field whose mighty sweep 

Was never matched 'neath light of rolling sun; 

God help ALL, nations' hearts to keep. 

And prize, and guard the victory won. 

And bless our greetings once again, 

To all for whom this grateful feast is spread. 

Midst thund'i-ing cheers for living men 
And holy tears for all the glorious dead. 



Now began the Toasts; and a rare season it was. The first Toast 
was: 

"THE ST^TE A>-r» THE NATION-Miitually Dependent and Independent." 
Responded to by H. C. Curtis, of Lemars. 

This was entirely impromptu, as it had been assigned to Major Van 
Duzee, who could not attend. He said : 

It always affords me pleasure to meet my old comrades. It was a 
question, eiarhleen years :igo, it we had a nation— wliether we had a 
country. That question we debated on tJie battle field. Eighteen years 
ago we were marching as prisoners Lhrougn the streets of Corinth Eut 
the question has been settled. Jt is no longer a question in dispute 
VVe are a nation, thank God. But let us not forget the cost of this na- 
tion, the price we paid for the liberty we enjoy. As we look at our ban- 
ner, Its uittered and torn shreds, how memory goes back over the iiast. 
VVhatWdsnffered, what we endured in defending that old flair let us 
never regret. ' 

'•THE AKMY AND NAVY'-The Safeguards of all Nations. Response by Hon. 
R. W. Tirrill, Manchester. 

Ever since the creation of the world, the weaker have been forced 
to bow in humble submission to the mandates of the stronger- the un- 
civilized to ilie civilized ; the minority to the mnjority. Thisseemsto 
be !) fundamental iavv of our very nature :— and acting upon that grand 
and noble inuciple, ''Tlie greatest good to the greatest number," we 
are necessanlv forced to admit the correctness of this natural law when 
applied to national affairs. 

For the protection of our natural and individual rights govern- 
meul^ and naiions have been formed, and the great underlying princi- 
ple of all luitions and governments is Law, and the absolute enforce- 
nientof that law is the only SMtVgnard guaranteed to the people who 
have entered into the solemn compact of National Unity. For this safe- 
^I;^'!i '4"^""^^^^ '^"^^ -Navies have been organized, and froin the early days 
ot the Irojan war, down through the succeeding ages, the Army and 
the Aavy have been the great power behind the tlirone to compel obe- 
dience to that law. without which nations fall and fade away and with 
them go those individual rights, so sacredly guarded by the constitu- 
tional hiw ot all civilized nations. Deprive us of these natural, inher- 
ent, inalienable, God given rights, which by a sense of our own intui- 



28 FIRST BE UNION OF THE 



tions wells up in the secret bosoms of brave men and true women, and 
to be a citizen is but to be a prisoner — bound and fettered by the iron 
grasj) of anotlier's will! The nobility of our birth, which makes us 
proud of our American citizenship, induces a sjurit of patriotism which 
causes us, as it did our fathers, to i)ledse our lives, our fortunes and 
our sacred honor, in defense of those liberties dearer to us tlian life 
itself. 

This noble spirit we inherit from our Spartnn ancestry, and while 
it is, in every sense, couDuendnble to the foreign or American soldier 
and citizen, it should not be cidtivated beyond its proper sphere of use- 
fulness— into haughtiness and pride, as exennjlilied in Ihe ambition of 
Xerxes, Alexa)ider, Napoleon, Cortes and otliers, whose individual ap- 
probation has been sought at the expense of the public good. 

The Army and the Navy, tiie Safeguards of all Nations 1 Foreign- 
ers throughout all the world, and Americans ;ilike, i)rocliiim it, and it 
would be idle in me, in tiie space of ten minutes, U> attempt to narrate 
from the historic page, in the old and new world, Ihousajids of instan- 
ces where the mere presence of a well disciplined Army and Navy have 
had even the moral force — the physical being known — to dispel the (hirk 
cloud of tyranny and despotism wliich has hung over an oppressed 
l)eople, and enabled them to see through the misty haze into the beau- 
tiful sunlight of freedom and liberty. 

That old flag, torn iii fragments by rebel bullets, thrown to the 
breeze by those who saw it safely through in triumph from JJonelson to 
Nashville, and carefully deposited as a memento among thn archives of 
our noble State, would (piell a second or third insurrection in South 
Carolina. Yet the Army and Navy are recognized as our Safeguard. 
But in our exalted pride for our Army and Navy, we sliould not forget 
that they are to be maintained and held (nly in reserve, subject to that 
higher power of civilization, •\National Arbitration." from the lessons 
of which we have almost learned (although not quite) that oiir swords 
may be turned into plowshares and our spears into pruning hooks. 

"THE CHILDREN OF THE TIYELFTH lOAVA-Gnd Bless them ! and may 
they live long to enjoy the Freedom that thvir Fathers, Living" and Dead, 
foug-ht to secure." 

Florence L. Dunham, who was to respond to this toast, was a little 
Miss of scarcely six years old. She faced the immense audience brave- 
ly at first, but the sea of faces shook her courage, she hesitated, and 
tinally burst into tears. But the audience cheered her to the echo, and 
not a heart but beat with sympathy for her. The verses she was to iiave 
spoken, were written for the occasion by her mother, Mrs. Abner Dun-- 
ham, and are given herewith : 

I love the brave old soldier. 

With coat and pants so blue, 
With buttons bright and .iaiinty cap. 

And heart so bold and true; 
Who'd give his life forfrccdom. 

And think not of renown; 
High, high in air he'd bear our Hag" 

Traitors would trample down. 

Beneath this old and tattered flag. 

Its colors once so gay, 
Now torn, and dim, and stained 

With l)lood of many a fray. 
Beneath its glorious stripes and stars 

My papa fought with you; 
O'er him it waived in danger's hour. 

And comrades tried and true. 



And when he takes me on his knee, 

I love the best to hear 
The stories of his army life, 

Thoug-h oft it brings a tear; 
He tells me of the dull days spent 

In sickness and in pain ; 
Of weary marches, long- and sad. 

Through sunshine and through rain; 

With aching- limbs and weary heart; 

With clothes all mud and sleet; 
With scarce a crumb of food or drink; 

And oh ! such tired feet 
Were in that long- and fainting march! 

Brave comrades faltered by the way ; 
Each shared with each the burden, 

For many a dreary day. 

And of the blood stained battle field. 

Where guns and cannons roar; 
The grass, that once was bright and green, 

All red witli human gore. 
Where oft he's seen his comrades fall, 

And could not stop to save 
Till thej' drove the banded traitors back; 
Then scooped a shallow grave. 

And placed them there with tender hands. 

As brother would for brother. 
Smoothing away the tangled locks, 

And clipping one for mother. 
Sorrowing- mother your lot is blessed, 

Thoug-h your treasures left are few, 
Since you give for your country's good the best, 

God ever gave to you. 

Then oft he'll tell of days 

That passed so slowly by, 
In rebel prisons' dingy walls 

Where they were left to die. 
Columbia's bravest sons, our boys so true, 

To die for want of food 
And kindly care; shame, shame, traitors, 

To waist such precious blood! 

I do not wonder papa loves 

His brother soldiers so ; 
And wishes oft his girl could be 

A soldier, brave as you; 
But if she can't a soldier be. 

Or lead a soldier's life. 
Perhaps, when she is older grown. 

She'll be a soldier's wife. 

Soldiers, then we give you welcome; 

A royal welcome, too; 
Right eagerly we'll grasp the hand 

Of those who wore the blue. 
In days of darkness, dire and dread, 

To you so staunch and true. 
Our all we owe, our banner bright, our coun- 
try's fame; 

God bless the "Boys in Blue." 



30 FIRST REUNION OF THE 



"IIAROTACK AN1> COFFKE— The Reserves from whieli we daily drew Nerve 
and Inspiration." Response by Capt. E. B. Sopor, Einmetsburj?. 

Cai)t. Soper, of Eniinettsburg, rose to the fourth toast. lie said he 
was not quite so full of his subject as he had been on former occasions. 
Whv the committee chose him to respond to this toast was a mystery 
to him, unless it was because he had a faculty of stowinaf away hirge 
quantities of those conunodities. Wiiy iiardtack was so much abused 
he could not say, nor where it got its name. Where the ''hard" came 
from he could understand, but where they got the ''t;ick" was beyond 
his investigation. Hut, after all. hardtack was the soldier's friend. We 
were gla<l to have it witli us. and when we had it not. we wished we had. 
No better or more healthy food could the soklier have than the much 
abused hardtack. Coming to coffee, the Captain said he would take the 
liberty to read a short description of coffee and its effects on the human 
system. The soldier needed' just such a thing to sustain him. There 
was never an army so well fed as ours during the rebellion, and hard- 
tack and coffee were the substantials. 

Miss Verda Kelsey then sang "Is the Battle Over,'' Mrs. A. J. 
Brown phiying organ accompaniment, and she sang it in a manner to 
call forth tumultuous applause. 

On motion of Col. D. B. Henderson, Miss Kelsey was made an 
honorory member of the Twelfth Iowa, amid a storm of cheers, tlie 
boys shouting till it seemed the roof of the hall would be lifted off. 

"THE GIRLS AVE LEF I' BEHIND US— The only Power that has made Pris- 
oners of us all." Response by Harvey Smith, Waterloo. 

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen, Comrades of the 12th Iowa : 

I feel particularly honored to-day for having been selected to re- 
si)ond to this toast of : The Girls We' left Behind Us. I always liked 
tlie girls we left behind us, and I plead guilty to the charge of being 
l)artial to them. The State of Iowa furnisiied her full quota, of brave 
soldiers and sent them to the tield, but she at the same time like a good 
general, held in reserve a, force equal to any emergency, in the loyal 
true hearted Girls we left behind us. 

Oh, how we used to think of them, who though absent, were still to 
nvemory dear, and wish we could be with them. '*Ve used Xo dwell upon 
their kindness, and when we used to receive letters from the Dear Girls 
we left beliind us, how we used to read them over again, and ponder 
over the words of cheer therein contained. Words of cheer and kind- 
ness whicli served to encourage us in the camp, on the m'arch, on the 
battlefield, in the siege, and in the prison pens of the South. Words of 
hope which nerved us on to greater exertion and nobler achievements. 
OhI l)ow we used to watch for those letters. And Dear Girls we left 
behind us. did you think, did you know what a noble thing you were 
doing when you used to write those clieering letters, bright and ra- 
diant with kind words of hope a,nd cheer V I remember oh. so well when 
after we had been on a long campaign and returning to where the mails 
could reach us, how eagerlv we received the contents, and .';ome of the 
Boys used to receive a great many letters addressed in a feminine hand, 
and when asked who their letters were from, they invariably replied, oh 
from my sisters— and I tell you some of the boys had a. great many sis- 
ters, judging from the number of letters they used to receive. Many of 
us carried next our hearts photographs of the Girls we left behind us. 
And we used to often take them out and fondly gaze on them through 
the mist of gathering tears. And then wlien at times we grew more 
contldent, the boys would show each otlier the ])ictures they had of "the 
(iirls Ave 4eft beliind us," and as we would look them over, we would 
ask, why who is this, John V— oh, that is my sister Mary, and then we 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 31 



would ask who is this, John V And he would reply, that is my sister 
Jane. xVnd so it was clear through the whole list. And I tell you some 
of those boys had the biggest lot of grand good looking sisters I ever 
heard of or saw in my life. I used to think they were particularly for- 
tunate in having so many si)lendid looking sisters. Oh, Dear Girls we 
left behind us, your thoughts were often with us, breathing pravers 
for our safety and success. And when the armed host moved forward to 
the grand assault, the loyal heart beats of the brave and true hearted 
Guls we left behind us kept time to our onward march. And then when 
the war was ended and the last armed foe surrendered and we returned 
home, all flushed and crowned with the laurel wreath of victory, iiow the 
Girls we left beliind us met, us at the gate, and proceeded to make 
"Prisoners of us all." 

We laid our trophies at their feet and gladly surrendered uncondi- 
tionally, though how they accomplished this wonderful result I never 
could fully determine. Perhaps I can no better describe it than in the 
Avords of the old soug — 

"Lovely woman is the sugar, 
Spoons us poor men seemed to be, 
Matrimony is hot water, 
Love is like a cup of tea." 

and wheu the whole unwritten history of this war shall be made up, and 
every he;irt throb of woe and endurance be written down— high up on 
ihe roll of fame ought to b^ inscribed in letters of imperishable gold, 
the names of the Girls we left behind us. 

Mr. President, I can not close this response without an allusion to 
those of the Girls we left behind us, who have ere this passed from 
earth. Let us cherish their memory, follow their example, tread the 
radiant pathway of their virtues as in ascending brightness it leads us 
safely over the valley of shadows, to that laud beyond the river. 

"THE AVIVKS, MOTHERS, DAUGHTERS A.l!iT> SWEETHEARTS OF 
THE TWELFTH lOAVA— None suffered more, none complained less. 
Our Flag- their Flag. Their Homes Our Hearts." Response by Lieut. J. E. 
Simpson, Dubuque, Iowa. 

Mr. President and Comrades :— This toast would have found a warm 
response in the hearts of the Twelfth Iowa in the days of 1861. And 
hnds a no less hearty one to-clay, among us the survivors of our noble 
regiment. Tliere were but few, if any at all, who went away with us, 
who did not leave behind some loved one, mother, wife, daughter, sis- 
ter or sweetheart, to endure and sulfer the ));ings and hearl.-aches of 
separation. Ours ^vas to go, to do, to dare. We had thf^ excitement of 
camp life, the frequent change of scene, and all the glitter, glory ;ind 
pomp of war, to distract our attention ;ind occupy our thoughts.' But 
theirs was to remain at home, with their accustomed round of quiet 
home duties to perforin, to sulfer and wait. 

Poets may sing. Historians mav write, and the story can never be 
half told, of the agonizing suspense of the mothers, wives and sweet- 
hearts, of the Twelfth, eighteen years ago— as the wires brought tlie 
news of a great battle being fought on the banks of the Tennesst-e, of 
our defeat; tlien our victory, then came the news of the capture of our 
regiment. AVhat words of mine, comrades, can convey even in a slight 
degree the agony and suspense of these loved ones at home ? That dear 
old gray headed mother, who had given up her son, and in many cases 
her sons, that the Union might be saved ; the wife who had seen her 
husband; the sister her brother ; the sweetheart her "soldier boy'': go 
away to war.— (And here Mr. President, let me remark, tliat we in a 
measure forget what terrors that word war, brought with it in 18(51-2, 
to a people unaccustomed lo fighting and blood-shed.) All of this was 
with tears and heart-pangs. Put when the news came from Shiloh, it 
seemed to them, and it was to many, the death knell to ;ill their hopes. 
No truer words could be said than those of our toast : "None suffered 
more and none complained less," is equally true. 



History tells us fill along its pages, of woman's love and devotion; 
not only to her own bat to her country. She has in all ages borne her 
full share of the haixlships and burthens of war. And tiie women of 
our own dear country failed not, in its hour of peril,— faithful, fearless, 
devoteil. Tliey were found in the hospital, cheering all, caring for the 
sick and wounded. At their homes unceasing in their efforts, in col- 
lecting supplies to go forward to tlie front. All over our broad prairies 
could be witnessed scenes of patriotism and sacrifice, before which the 
stories of the mothers and matrons of ancient Greece and Rome pale. 
There are hearts turning toward us to-day— prayers of mothers and 
sisters, all over Northern Iowa. Comrades tell how they came to wish 
them a pleasant time at our Reunion, and express their continued love 
for the "Old Twelfth. '' 

The mother and sister of John Stillman who fell shot through the 
brain at Donelson are with us in their thoughts and prayers to-day. 
Poor John — a noble, gallant soldier. Well I remember with comrade 
Rogers we carried liim to the rear in hopes we might catch one last 
word. J3ut within tlie hour, just as the last ray of the sun touched the 
toi)S of the noble oaks that formed that Southern forest, John's soul 
went home to the God who gave it, as pure as the snow on which he lay. 

That noble Scandinavian moth'^r, Mrs. Steen, of Winneshiek 
county, who, having seven sons — all good men and true, — sent six to 
the defense of the Union ; three of whom— John, Henry and Theodore, 
went with us in the Twelfth. Her thoughts are with us to-day. 

With what love and affection every member of the Twelfth is held 
by a mother like Mrs. Nelson Burdick of Decorah, who having live sons, 
all of them splendid specimens of "Towa Boys" sent them all to do bat- 
tle for the Union, and only two returned— Corporal Nelson Burdick,her 
youngest son, wiio died from disease and hardslnps incurred with you 
in rebel prisons, and Lieutenant A. A. Burdick, who was killed at the 
battle of Tupelo by a solid shot from the rebel batteries, both honored 
members of the Twelfth Iowa. 

Sucli women are cemented to the Twelfth with ties that time only 
strengthens. xVnd when and wherever we may meet we shall always 
haveVi place in their hearts second to none. We meet to join hands in 
friendly grasp. We tell of these scenes of suffering with no vain 
boast. We have no desire to rake up the past, nor dwell upon its strug- 
gles. With ch;irity towards all, enjoying as we are the blessings of 
peace so hardly won, at such a cost of suffering both mental and physi- 
cal, to the men and women of that time. 

But the lesson taucrht cost too much, and we can not afford to have 
it lost. So we tell the story, that our children may learn what the Union 
is to us— that they may cherish it dearly, love it as warmly, and be as 
ready to sacritice and suffer for it, against foes within, and without, as 
the men and women of 1861 did. And as we the story tell, and the 
lesson teach, do not let us fail to makp clear to them and draw the lines 
distinct between loyalty and disloyalty, patriotism and treason. 

Mr. President and Comrades, I know of no more fitting way to close 
the response to this toast, than by asking you to join me, in three hearty 
cheers for ''The Wives. Motliers, Daughters and Sweethearts of the 
Twelfth Iowa— None suffered more, none complained less. Our flag 
their flag— Their homes our hearts." 

Mrs. W. N. Boynton, then favored the ^udience with "The Battle 
Prayer," in her usual finished and effective manner, and was heartily 
encored, when she gave "The Star Spangled Banner," with great effect, 
and to the great delight of the boys. 



TWELFTH TOW A V. V. INFANTRY 33 



'HISTORY OF THE TWELFTH IOWA VETEIIAK VOLUNTEER 
INFANTRY." Keart at the First Reunion of tlie Regiment, at Manches- 
ter, fowa, April fith, 1880, by Capt. Wm. L. Henderson, Co. C, Leroy, Minn 

Dear comrades of the Twelfth we meet again. 
We call the roll and former ties renew ; 
We pitch our camp in quietude ;ind peace. 
At Manchester the pleasant rendesvous. 

We hear again the morning reveille. 

Our glorious banner once agaiit is seen ; 

We eat together at tlie self same mess. 

And drink once more from out the same canteen. 

We greet each other with a friendly grasp, 
We see fond Vv^elcome in each beaming eye ; 
Each face suggests some memory of the past. 
The camp, the niarch, the thrilling battle cry. 

We tight our battles over once agiiin, 
Resumed the raarcii pursued with blistered feet; 
Again in thought you mount the picket guard, 
A silent sentinel on your lonely beat. 

The Iowa Twelfth was raised with speed and care. 
Throughout the Northeast counties of the State ; 
Hardin. J. inn, Blackhawk and Delaware, 
Winneshiek. Allamakee. Jackson and Fayette, 

Hardin county heads the list with "A." 
As stalwart boys as ever wore the blue ; 
Always on hand for battle, work, or play. 
When mustered in they numbered ninety-two. 

Then ninety men came marching from the north, 
From Democratic steady Allamakee : 
All hardy sons of toil and noble worth. 
Those were the boys of gallant Compuny "B" 

"C Company left their homes in old Fayette, 
To follow the destiny of their country's star: 
I^eaving their books, their college, and their State, 
One hundred students in the art of war. 

Company "D,'' the youthful sons of J. inn, 
Proud to uphold the banner of tiieir State ; 
And all resolved the Union's cause must win, 
A splendid Company, numbering ninety-eight. 

Blackhawk county gave us Company "E," 
Who hated slavery and the rebel rag ; 
Ninety-four as steady honest men. 
As ever fought for country and for Hag. 

Delaware county so generous of her sons. 
Resolved to make the starry banner safe ; 
She, ever ready witli her men and guns, 
Gave ninety nine brave men in Company "F." 

Winneshiek gave the Regiment, Company "G," 
Those noble sons of Scandinavian sires; 
Ninety men chivalrous and free. 
As ever fought for freedom's sacred fires. 



S4 tYRST REUNION OF THE 



Dubuque and Delawai-e at lastcombine. 
And both united, gave us Company "•II ;" 
Eighty-two brave men as ever formed a line. 
Or vanquished treason in its latest dit(?h. 

Eighty-five strong men, resolved to win or die-. 
Guided by duty, patriotism and reason; 
Yes, Jackson county gave us Company ''^I," 
Who struck hard blows at slavery and treason, 

Delaware county gave us still another. 
Company ''IC cainie, numbeiing (eighty four ; 
She bade' them like tlie ancient Sjxirtan niother. 
Return victorious, or return no more. 

Another Company merits s"i)ecial mention. 
Familinr since the days of Roderick Dhu ; 
All soldiers on the war path after cfiickens, 
Invariably belonged to Company "Q." 

How litting that in Delaware you meet. 
And on her soil that war worn banner raise ; 
Here will the Twelfth her l>)yal i)eo])le greet, 
And tender her our grateful meed of praise. 

The Regiment began its training and restraint, 
Camp Union was not destitute of charms ; 
Those early drills were borne without complaint. 
And formed a friendly brotherhood in arms. 

The field and staff selected and commissioned. 
Without the usual jealousy or liate; 
Woods by training in the stern profession, 
A better olficer never left the State. 

Even now, when in the peaceful walks of life. 
We hear the Colonel's words without abridtjment ; 
Fall on our ears so measured, calm, and slow, 
Fall in Twelfth Iowa Regiment. 

Colonel Coulter was a splendid fellow. 

As brave a man as ever met the foe ; . 

In war or peace his measured accents mellow. 

Fell from his honored lij^s by far too slow. 

Brodtbeck, by example, was a gallant soldier. 
His stern commands all indicated light ; 
JJut winter campaigns try the strongest men. 
The snows of Donelson took him from our sight. 

Your Chaplains, sentinels on the walls of Zion, 
At times sent forth the glorious gos])el cry ; 
Chaplains like sinners, have their hour of weakness, 
When they are not just quite prepared to die. 

On dress parade, when all so trim and neat. 
The pride or terror of the diligent ; 
The report and orders never seemed complete, 
Without the legend, U. E. Duncan, Adjutai]t. 

Our Surgeons were skillful, genial and good. 
Though liardened somewhat by the toils of war ; 
Stern Parker. Huff, and gracious Underwood, 
The rugged Finley. and patient Barr. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 35 



What contrasts mark the soldier's checquered life. 
Regardless of what he was, or miglit have been; 
His training for the inirpose of war, 
Make men combined a terrible machine. 

A change of base from Iowa to Missouri, 

To lienlon liarracks, where two months yon staid ; 

The better to vvithstiiid the rebel fury, 

By training in Division and Brigade. 

At St, Louis, the lieguuent battled with disease, 
i^ighiy soldiers died at one fell swipe ; 
Death and contagion came on every breeze, 
Black measles of the most malignant type. 

From Heuton Barracks eagerly you go. 
Marching ordt-rs came extremely lucky ; 
liaported to General Grant at Cairo, 
And camped in the lield at Smitliland in Kentucky. 

Embarked in transports on the Tennessee. 
To reacli and invest Fort Henry from the land ; 
You arrived in lime to sec the rebels flee, 
The cautious Jolmnies dare not make a stand. 

Then on to Donelson, that mysterious stronghold, 
Who s rugged slopes inspired the mind with awe ; 
The rebel defenders, contident and bold. 
Within their works and bristling abettis. 

The very heavens conspired at your defeat, 
Poured on your iieads an avalanche of storm ; 
Chilled each sentinel on his cheerless beat. 
And wrapped in .snow, e icii sleeping soldier's form. 

Fet from his wintry bed, each w srrior rose. 
.Shook from his freezing limbs the clingingsnow; 
iiushed gaily up the slopes with sliouts and olows, 
And like a tempest swept the vanquished foe. 

The rebel flag at hist has disappeared. 
And with it all the venom it engendered ; 
And in ils place a pure white flag is reared, 
HuKiiAH ! HLJXiH.\H! Fort Donelson has surrendered. 

The rebel cannon hush their w^ild alarms. 
The musketry suspend its leaden showers; 
THiRTKiiN TiiousANr) prisoners stack their arms. 
And rugged Donelson at last is ours. 

tlven victory brought you many throes of grief. 
Dear comrades dead, and absent friends who weep ; 
In silence, and with ritting service brief, 
Yon left them to their last and dreamless sleep. 

From Metal Landing, on the Tennesse, 
Again you stem that river's rising flood ; 
To All an oppointment at the Sliiloh church. 
And take your Sunday's baptism of blood. 

Just eighteen years ago this pleasant day. 

For nine long hours your deadly muskets rattle ; 

Firm as a rock you barred the rebel way. 

Held your ground and saved the ill stared battle. 



FJUST REUNION OF THE 



Shiloh was fDiight without a goueral he:u). 
Its liist(ny ineoiii])lete, even to this hour ; 
Hhmderinji' iucoinpetenrte piled np your dead, 
Your manhood alone witlistood tlie rebifl power. 

Uunknown to tlie Twelfth, that on its left and right. 
The foe had peiio'.r tied with slaughter dire ; 
Still unsiipjjorted you uKiintaiued the \Vj;hU 
Engulfed in a vortex of the rebel lire. 

Your (/oloiKd woimded. General Wallace (U'ad, 
Nineiy-seveu soldiers wounded on tlie tield ; 
Sixteen dead comrades on their gorv bed, 
And still the bleeding Twelfth refused to yield. 

Environed and l>eset ou every side. 
By reliel hosts encompassed like a wall ; 
At live r. m. you ceased to stem the tide 
Of battle, with the dark and bloody i)an. 

Your courage largely saved tlmt tield of bUwJ, 
Y(ni held the rebels from the Tennesse'-' ; 
'Till Buel's troops began to cross the flood. 
The Twelfth w-as l(wt. ttie Union army fret^ 

Our buried comrades on the Tennessee. 
For long hath slept beside its rijjplincr waves ; 
And sw^cE'i'Lv to;), blessed :.iAKT-il4S of trie fiee, 
A Nation guards th.^ir consecrated graves; 

Here began your t^-rm of })risoii life. 

Your fe.irt'u] sufferings, wlio alas ! can tell ? 

Pe.vth by Starvation, jikauti.ess means of strife. 

Your jailors seemed the very fieni>s of hell. 

Still unsubdued by dead line or stockade. 

Your patient courage glorilied vour State ; 

Surrounded by your o-ailant old Hrigade, 

The Eighth and Fourteenth Iowa shared your fute. 

But what a fate, — surpassing all belief ; 
Can heaven be kind, and tardy justice lag ? 
Cold and exposure doth augment your grief— 
Your famished bodies clothed in tiltli and rags 

Exjiosed to e !ch sui-1y guard's revengeful mood, 
The vermin infested sands your only bed; 
The DIRTY CART that brought your L(jathsome food. 
Removed your rlighted and untimely dead. 

No ray of light to cheer the fearful gloom. 

Yon hear some Comradi-: with his latest breath, 

Pr.iy for release before the aavfitl tomb 

Close round him in that ciiarnel house of death. 

Humanity and progress both demand. 
That this fair land may neer behold again ; 
Such willful disregard of heaven's connnand. 
As marked the horrors of the prison pen . 

Our dead in prison 'tis a sacred spot. 
Where traitors laid those martyrs of the Nation ; 
No cause on earth could prosper with the blot 
Of soldiers slain by damned assassination. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. S7 



Peacefully they sleep in distant Southern graves. 
The land of sunshine, (lowers and clinging vines ; 
Where sununer winds like sweet ^Eolian harps, 
Sing their sad requiem through the lonely pines. 

The fragments of the troops escaping capture, 
By whatsoever duties were delayed ; 
Were all combined without a shade of rapture. 
And styled the Unfoiitunatji; Union liuiGADE. 

And like unfortunates of every class. 
Required to perform twice what they did before ; 
At guarding rations, railroad, bridge or pass, 
Or doing out-post duty for the corps. 

Tlie advance was made on Cokinth under Halleck ; 
A change of tactics was at once began : 
The sword was cast aside for spade and mattock, 
And war was waged on the European plan. 

After long weeks of labor in the trenches, 
(ireat('orinth, the objective point was won ; 
The spoils of w'ar wnre countless Negro wenches, 
And one dismounted, pond'rous, wooden gun. 

Halleck returned, eacli colored refugee, 
Refused Ids information ;ind assistance; 
The friends of freedom stood agliast to see, 
This General foster slavery and resistance. 

Corinth w:is made the base of oi)erations. 
On Vicksl)urg. by the line of Holly Springs ; 
Vast supplies and half a, million rations. 
Were stored within its Fort encircled rings. 

The TtEBELS tiring of their own provisions. 
Black-strap molasses, corn, and tasteless rice ; 
Advanced on Corinth in three grand divisions. 
Under Villpagne, Van Dorn and Price. 

The Union Brigade as usual were on hand. 
Marching out to meet them, a committee on deception ; 
To amuse the i-eb's and bring them to a stand. 
Till Corinth was re-enforced for their reception. 

To the very letter the orders were obeyed. 
To form in line of battle under hre ; 
And meet the rebel column undismayed, 
Ropel his charge, then steadily retire. 

All day long the rebel column charged. 
And step by step you doggedly retreat ; 
And hour by hour the forces were enlarged. 
Preparing for the rebels' sure defeat. 

General Price became impatient of delay. 
And urged his worred forces to the fight ; 
To capture uorinth 'ere the close of day. 
And feed his soldiers from the stores at night. 

Here for the night the rebel charge was stayed. 
The darkening woods with drunken clamor tilled ; 
Here night was welcomed by yt)ur thinned Brigade, 
And here your General Heickehnan was killed. 



;i,^ FIRST ME UNION OF THE 



Each fifteen minutes through that autumn night, 
Tlie rebels sent tlicir messengers of hell ; 
To (luiet your nerves and make your slumber light, 
\Mlii sohiii-rs lullaby, a bursting shell. 

The morning found both, armies in their place, 
And ready t«) unseal the book of fate ; 
The Union lirigade uow occui)ied the space, 
Between Forts iiicluirdson and Kobinnett. 

There is a calm precedes the wildest storm. 
IJefori^ the lightning's Hash or thunder rattle ; 
Just like the calm when strong batialions form, 
55i!re harbinger of on impending battle. 

A single gun within the rebel lines. 
And all hisheree batialions were in motion ; 
Sons of tiie Southern palm, and Xortliern pines, 
j^fow met to test their courage and devotion. 

The rebel masses press their devious way. 
Through falling tiniler,— difficult obstriiction. 
While on their r;inks converging batteries play. 
With marked effect and terrible destruction. 

Uimiindful of the cannister and shell, 
And heedless of the thundering cannonade ; 
Tlie rebel column .siagcered. stopped, and fell. 
Before the volley of your old Brigade. 

That glorious Hag so often fell and rose. 
Its very tissue singed by rebel lire ; 
But to the last it waved bef )re its f )es, 
Upiield by the Twelfth, till all its toes retire. 

For tAVO brief hours the battle fiercely raged, 
iiepulsed and bleeding their recall was sounded : 
The Twelfth lost TiiiiiTY from eighty men engaged. 
And every commissioned officer was wounded. 

The enemy lost live thousand on the lield, 
His rout was most disastrous :ind complete ; 
In lengthened struggles Southrons have to yield. 
And i-'iacii as usual beat a swift retreat. 

The chosen seed of Israel's ancient race. 

Who once of old on heavenly manna fed ; 

At Corinth were found, not weeping o'er the place. 

But robbing tlie gallant and unconscious dead. 

General Gra it took special notice of the crime. 
But not to punish with prison house or fines ; 
In general orders secured at the time. 
The Jews were banished from the Union lines. 

By order the Union Brigade was discontinued. 
The fragments ordered to their several States ; 
Their love of country firm and unsubdued, 
iiejoiced to meet their liberated mates. 

The Twelfth's surviving prisoners were exchanged. 
After long months of wretched prison life ; 
With hated treason they were enstranged. 
And doubly anxious to renew the strif ■■. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 3!) 



At St. L(3uis the Twelfth iigaiu were re-united, 
Re-m-^anizediVffain for active war ; 
Again your regimentiil faitli was plighted, 
For victory and your Nation's rising star. 

The Regiment soon was ready for the front, 
And anxious to respond to duty's call ; 
To Vicksburg you were sent to share the brunt. 
And walk on foot through General Grant's canal. 

Tlie boat on which you sailed down to Vicksburg, 
Was loaded with coffins for prospective dead ; 
For want of space, you used them for a table, 
At night you used tliem for your bunk or bed. 

You disembarked at Duckport, Louisiana, 
The land of cypress swamps and alligators ; 
Stagnant bayous fringed with mock banana. 
The home and hot-bed of rebellious traitors. 

Vicksburg, majestic in its strength was seen. 
The very embodiment of slumbering war ; 
.The Mississippi only rolled between, 
So very near it seemed, and yet so far. 

Even in repose the silent water batteries, 
Seemed conscious, active, living, sentient things ; 
And branching works, like human arteries, 
Connecting all its fort encircled rings . 

Here you beheld that wonderful display, 
The Vicksburg batteries blazing like retorts ; 
Gloomy midnight changed to glorious day. 
When Union transports passed the rebel forts. 

Vicksburg was impregnable from tlie front, 
Its capture by the Yazoo far too dear ; 
Captured it must be, and as was your wont. 
You marched by the flank to take it from the rear. 

Your progress marked war's desolating patii, 
Through burning ruins of sugar house and gin ; 
A soldier's vengeance, or a planter's wrath. 
Fit sequence of secession, war and sin. 

Lone chimneys stand where lordly mansions stood. 
Like monumental tomb stones o'er the place ; 
■^^"^iiere prayers to heaven ascended from the good. 
To Curse the oppressors of the Negro race. 

You found amusement on the weary march. 
In shooting buzzards, snakes and alligators ; 
The sacred birds and reptiles of the South, 
With characteristics like their kindred traitors. 

The road to Hard Times Landing was so long, 
The transports bore you to the Eastern shore ; 
Gaily you sung that stanza from the song, 
May Hard Times Landing come again no more. 

Grand Gulf was left dismantled by the fleet. 
You with Sherman was ordered to explore ; 
The exterior line of Pemberton's retreat, 
And capture Jackson with the Fifteenth Corps. 



40 FIB ST REUNION OF THE 



This tor the Twelftli wis not unpleasant duty, 
As you had called at Jackson once before ; 
When insults ^leeted you from lips of beauty, 
And you had promised them to call once more. 

Your second call was rather unexpected. 
Hy rapid marching throui>;h a summer storm ; 
You found the Johnnies busy cooking bn>akfast. 
And helped yourselves without tlie usual form. 

Some were engaged in conning o'er their books. 
Some playing cards, or polishing their gaiters ; 
The Twelfth found them very admirable cooks. 
But very negligent and careless waiters. 

The people now forgot to jeer and mock, 
The Yankee soldiers at their just carouse ; 
When rebel stores ascend to heaven in smoke. 
Accompanied by the old Confederate house. 

Railroads cut, and rebel stores consumed. 
The troops with Jackson settled all their bills ; 
The n\arch on ^'icksburg was again res-uned, 
To the music of our guns on Champion Hills. 

Pemberton defe:=ited on the Chaminon Hills, 
Before the Thirteenth Corps falls slowly back ; 
Disheartened at all those multiplying ills. 
He tied to Vicksbiirg, when you crossed the Black. 

Your army con)S from Black River led the van. 
Your Regiment in adv;ince when brought to l)ay ; 
The Vicksburg Ftn-is with gloomy thouj;hts you scan. 
At nine o'clock, the eighteenth day of May. 

Within their works all silent and sedate. 
The rebels from their battlements beholds ; 
Deploying squadrons seal them to their fate. 
Like anaconda in its lengthened folds. 

Provisions now were very high and scarce. 
For all you had from the commissariat stoi'e. 
When you began the battle, march and chase, 
Was three days rations twenty days before. 

The value of hard tack now you comprehend. 
Satiety and loathing are forgot : 
And like the memory of an absent friend. 
You prize it highest when you have it not. 

Grant flushed with victory in the open field. 
Propelled his army like a ponderous sledge ; 
Full on the forts, expecting them to yield. 
Without the labors of a regular siege. 

Vainly the folumns charge with bated breath. 
Entire Brigades became the forlorn hope •. 
Repulsed before those siiddy heights of death. 
You plant your flags along the outer slope. 

But not content with courage and devotion, 
Move victims still, for war's avenging thunder ; 
Fresh Brigades were doomed and put in motion, 
A noble sacrifice to McClernand's blunder. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 41 



The cruel charge was barren of results, 
The bleeding soldiers uttered no reproaches ; 
Vicksburg could not be taken by assault, 
]?ut regular siege and gradual approaches. 

For forty days you work at sap and mine, 
Alternate nights is given to sleep and rest ; 
Alternate nights you guard the picket line. 
And every duty is performed with zest. 

Magnolia blossoms strew the trembling earth, 
Sweet perfume by the summer breeze was spread ; 
JSTow from the field a pestilential breath, 
Is wafted from our still unburied dead. 

A flag of truce from every fortress tell. 
The thundering batteries"now are hushed and still ; 
Our gallant dead were buried where they fell, 
Along the crest of Vicksburg's bloody hill. 

Two hours armistice, both the armies meet, 
On neutral ground their courtesies begin ; 
No boast of victory, glory or defeat. 
Death and the grave make enemies akin. 

The time is up, the blue and gray retire, 
Ihe signal gun is heard from near and far ; 
Five hundred guns resume their deadly fire, 
With all the horrors of tumultuous war. 

The answering batteries, through the summer nights, 
Made music like a chime of pealing bells ; 
The arch of heaven was glorious with the lights. 
Of burning fuse and bright exploding shells. 

On July fourth the works were all complete, 
The knell of Vicksburg was alreadv tolled; 
The garrison capitulate to escape defeat. 
And thirty thousand prisoners were paroled . 

The backbone of the rebel cauSe you broke. 
The Mississippi valley now was free. 
And free indeed, for hot a slavish yoke 
Was borne from Lake Itasca to the sea. 

Johnston's army came like gallant liege, 

Y ou marched at once and met him at tlie Black ; 

xie came too late to raise the Yankee siege, 

1 ou crossed the stream and promptly drove him back. 

He sought at once the shelter of his guns. 
At Jackson, where he fortified the place ; 
A useless labor lost, because he runs. 
And leaves the once proud city in disgrace. 

Your Regiment and Brigade was sent in chase, 
A duty performed with spirit and abandon ; 
You changed his slow retreat, into a race. 
And closed the campaign with the fight at Brandon. 

Two rebel armies captured or destroved, 
For want of work your Generals thought it best; 
Ihe summer months in camp should be employed. 
To build SHEBANGS, recuperate, and rest. 



42 FIRST BE UNION OF THE 



How tedious were those weary days in camp. 

So trying to the active soldier's patience ; 

How deleterious to tlie general health, 

Was iiAKD TACK fried in grease, the usual ration. 

The CLASSIC NAME of one important ration. 
I dare not speak, for fear of punishment, 
It is that part of the mateknal hog, 
Where juvenile swine derive tlieir nourishment. 

Tlie summer gone with all its fading beauty. 
The time for active service is at hand ; 
You march on Brownsville, beiit on warlike duty, 
Where all the reb's skedaddle, or disband. 

Tlie Mississippi campaign now is o'er, 
The country of armed rebels wholly free ; 
Transferred from Sherman to the Sixteenth corps. 
You join your division at Memphis, Tennessee. 

Detailed for duty never done before, 
Kebuilding railroads now your thouglits employ ; 
You led the van as a construction corps. 
As promptly as you labored to destroy. 

This duty done you garrison Chewalla, 
Colonel Stibb's commandant no one interferes ; 
There you passed a very pleasant winter. 
And re-enlisted as Veteran Volunteers. 

Companies '•"I" and '"G" prepared and in platoon. 
Marched to a party, through the somber woods; 
The boys struck up their old familiar tu e, 
And ALL TO A MAN LEFT, the rebel dance who could. 

Chewalla to Vicksburg you were ordered back, 
On garrison duty, where one month you staid ; 
Protecting all the crossings of the Black, 
Till Sherman returned from his meridian raid. 

To Iowa now you went on veterans' furlough. 
And reach yoiu" pleasant liomes by various ways. 
The brightest page your checkered lives can show. 
Was that bright holiday of thirty days. 

Short tliirty days, a drop in human life. 
Friends grasp your hand with many doubts and fears 
The blushing maiden, parent, friend, or avife. 
Sob their good bye with eyes suffused in tears. 

Still more endeared to country, home and friend, 
While silent praj^ers like holy incense rise ; 
You take the Held, those treasures to defend. 
The soldier's love of country never dies. 

The veterans meet at Davenport on time. 
And soon rejoined their comrades at the front; 
Where General Smith and Mil. Banks combine- 
Along the Red River on a rebel hunt. 

Your late position is again restored. 
The tirst division of the Sixteenth corps. 
No more with musty camps will you be bored, 
But marching or Hghting till the war be o'er. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 43 



A.J. Smith, your dashing corps commander, 
An active Vesuvius, always in eruption ; 
In battle he was a perfect Salamander, 
His corps the very war cloud of destruction. 

Your march was often fleeter than the wind. 
Your path seemed blackened by the silicon's breath, 
Your tents and baggage always left behind ; 
Your war cry followed by the stroke of death. 

Your line of march though never trod before. 
Left few inducements for a march again ; 
The rebels supplied your basket and your store. 
And real war was never felt till then. 

Th(^ natives reap the fruits of disobedience, 

And the States once traversed by the Sixteenth corps ; 

Were ready to resume their old allegiance. 

And satisfied with war forevermore. 

Forrest Hushed with victory over General Sturges, 
And treating armed Contrabands like brutes ; 
His acts applauded by the rebel Burgliers, 
Who gloried in his fiendish attributes. 

War at best is cruel and severe, 

But HOKKiiJLE when malice guides the hands. 

Historic justice damns the dark career, 

Of Forrest murdering captured Contrabands. 

You marched at once to stay the cruel disaster. 
Filled with contempt for such a treacherous chief ; 
At Tupelo you applied your usual plaster. 
And punished for once this Negro killing thief. 

The post of honor assigned to your Brigade, 
You plainly see his motley gathering host ; 
In three lines deep the columns were arrayed. 
You even hear their proud exultant boast. 

Forrest promised his troops a very easy battle. 
Another Guntown massacre he said ; 
Stami)ede the Yankees like a herd of cattle, . 
And feed the buzzards with their butchered dead. 

With all the eloquence of an auctioneer, 
lie sold his Yankee wares so very cheap ; 
And those same Yankees cost the butcher dear. 
You piled his dead in one promiscuous heap. 

Forrest reforms his shattered line anew, 
Grown desperate in view of probable defeat ; 
You meet his onset with a countercharge. 
When all his lines are broken and retreat. 

You taught him lessons in the art of war, 
Kindly removed and dressed his wounded braves; 
Foul murder leaves a more enduring scar. 
Casts deeper shadows o'er the gloom of graves. 

The confederate stores at Tupelo consumed. 
The railroads cut and Forrest's troops defeated ; 
Your march on Memphis was again resumed. 
With that affair at Old Town Creek completed. 



44 



FIRST HE UN ION OF THE 



At Tupelo your losses were severe, 
Sixty-four in wounded, killed und missing, 
Their noble deeds we honor ai\d revere, 
Their glorious death receives a nation's blessing. 

Companies "A" and "F" detatched for special duty, 
Guarding the whites from raiding ^lainalukes ; 
One rosy dawn so fresh with summer beauty. 
Repulsed a Brigade of General Marmaduke's. 

The rebel forces full six hundred men, 
Who s\unmoned your forty veterans to yield ; 
Your ringing answer shook the southern glen. 
They lied, and left you, masters of the held. 

They also left their fallen comrades there. 
Sure evidence of their disastrous flight; 
Twenty dead and wounded to your care. 
Human trophy's of a desi)erat"e fight. 

In Mississippi other raids you made. 
More foes to conquer, other fields to win ; 
But Forrest now^ avoids your dextrous bhule. 
And rebel provender, getting scarce and thin. 

Across the Mississippi now you go. 
Where rebel cavalry resistless race ; 
The Union horsemen being found too slow. 
Smith's infantry were started in the chase. 

Embarked on transports ready to explore. 
The white river country, glooiny, wild and rough ; 
Through treacherous Bandits on its murky shore. 
You disembark at rugged Duvall's Bluff. 

With steady march you sweep across the State 
Of Arkansas, where lawless robbers rove ; 
O'er barren hills, composed of rock and slate. 
Through dismal swamp, and naseous papa grove. 

Across the Ozark rnnge with rapid strides. 
Where primative races sung their fetich hymns ; 
With scarcely space along its rocky sides. 
To pitch your camp or streach your weary limbs. 

Down from the hills you sweep, a compact force. 
Your ilaily march, at night bring pleasing dreams ; 
Rapidly gaining oir tiie rebel horse. 
You ford or swim the rushing mountain streams. 

A strange phenomenon never seen before, 
Unknown in warefare's pre-existing rules ; 
The rapid marching of the Sixteentli corps. 
From sheer exhaustion killed the patient mules. 

This fact alone, retarded operations. 
And frequent halts the hurried march beguile ; 
The dying brutes call forth your obligations. 
The average loss was three mules to the mile. 

By Cape Girardeau sound to Jefferson city. 
You sailed, to give the weary mules a rest. 
Price saw^ the point, and more from fear than pity. 
Turned his plundering columns to the West. 



You disembark without an hours delay, 
And once again renew the novel chase ; 
Where mounted rebels try to run away ; 
And infantry still gaining in the race. 

The enemy burn the bridges in his rear, 
And to all destructive usages conform ; 
Which does not even check your swift career. 
You swim the ice-cold Osage in a storm. 

Right in the midst of war and its alarms. 
The soldier being a common resident; 
A halt is called, the Regiment stack their arms, 
And dripping wet you vote for President. 

You exercised the freeman's sacred right. 
Without a tliought of folly, fraud or vice ; 
With ballot and bullet both you fairly fight, 
This Presidential campaign after Price, 

You make a spurt and march both day and night, 
While ague chills and burning fevers parch ; 
Before or since no record of the sight 
Of Infantry sleeping while upon the march. 

Across three States you chased the rebel host. 
Captured all his baggage, guns and cattle: 
His army scattered, broken up and lost, 
His retreat was more disastrous than a battle. 

Without a moment's time for needed rest. 
The Sixteenth Corps was sent to Tennessee, 
Where Hood on General Thomas closely prest. 
When Sherman's army started for the sea. 

Along the course of three Majestic streams. 
Past marts of trade and silent sombre wood, 
Up the Cumberland your transport streams. 
Where you confront the rash, impetuous Hood. 

Your landing from the boats was made in time, 
Your corps its noble destiny fultills; 
Out on the centre of the Union lines 
You stem the rebel torrent from the Hills. 

Tne gallant Hood you never met before; 
You only knew his hghting reputation; 
His introduction to the Sixteenth corps 
Broke the last link that bound his federation. 

The opposing squadrons scarce their lines conform. 
When from the north the wintry tempests blow, — 
The wrath of heaven seemed riding on the storm, 
And both the armies are engulfed in snow. 

The heavenly wrath subdued the wrath of men; 
War for a time the shivering hosts forego; 
No shelter save the hills or wooded glen. 
One hundred thousand soldiers 'neath the snow. 

Scarce had the melting snow from mountain sides 
Poured down its torrents to the swelling flood. 
When battling armies help to swell the tide 
With precious streams of gallant soldiers' blood. 



A council of war by all the corps' commanders; 
(ieneralThonuis si"inted A. J. Smith's request,— 
The Sixteenth corps, those fiery salamanders. 
Should strike the besieging rebel army first. 

December fifteenth, ere the break of day. 
The movement was begun with silent tread; 
Dense clouds of vapor o'er the landscape lay. 
The drowsy rebels thought you still in bed. 

Like opening drama on tlie mimic stage 
The foggy curtain lifted to the sun, 
Revealing all the Sixteenth corps engaged, 
And the last great battle of the war begun. 

The charge was sharp, decisive and severe; 
No hesitation marked the prompt advance; 
No doubtful laggards lingered in the rear. 
And all ouv flags went o'er their works at once. 

Hood's veteran soldiers, brave, misguided men, 
Fell back before you in disastrous rout; 
While breathless you renew the charge again, 
Capturing their cannon in their last redoubt. 

You gathered up the captured spoils of war. 
Advanced your lines till you confront your foes, 
Eat your scant rations, and beneath the stars 
Sank on the field of battle for repose. 

Hood, staggered by the almost crushing blow, 
Strong disappointinent now liis bosom tills, 
Not one step northward now his legions go. 
Besieged himself along the Brentwood Hills. 

When nnn-ning broke calm and serenely bright, 
Your veteran ranks were moving o'er the plain; 
Full in the front and center of the fight. 
You take the post of honor once again. 

Wood's fourth corps was to storm the Overton's Hill, 
His success or defeat. Smith's only sign; 
To hiu'l his corps against the Brentwood Hill, 
And break in pieces Hood"s extended line. 

By ten o'clock, with stubborn resistance, 
You gain position near your watchful foe. 
And wait for hours within good striking distance 
For Woods to move and strike the signal blow. 

You hear at last the tumult of his charge, 
In quiet suspense you wait with anxious breath; 
When from the hill the enemy discharge 
Full on his ranks the leaden streams of death. 

Vainly the soldiers strive, both white and black, 
TO reach the crest of Overton's fiery Hill ; 
Repulsed and bleeding they are driven back ; 
The firing cease and all the lines are still. 

The calm was but the prelude to the storm; 
The Sixteenth corps from their concealment rose. 
Without a halt their broken lines to form; 
You heedless rush on panic-stricken foes. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 47 



The rebel works became a wall of fire, 
In sharp response to your resounding cry; 
When veteran soldiers of a hundred battles 
Break their ranks, throw down their arms and fly. 

You take their batteries, arms and battle flags, 
And capture prisoners, now a seething mass. 
All struggling to escane beyond the hills, 
Or through the defile of the Brentwood pass. 

Your work in Tennessee was now completed; 
You had no other contracts, jobs or leases; 
You left the rebels broken and defeated. 
With General Thomas gathering up the pieces. 

You made a halt at Eastport, Mississippi, 
Ustensibly to build your winter quarters; 
But marching orders came and set you free. 
And olf again like roving Calmuck Tartars. 

At Eastport you were short of food supplies; 
The country round depleted and forlorn; 
The baggage mules, your steady constant friend, 
Divide with you his fodder and his corn. 

You embark at Eastport through a storm of sleet. 
And down the Tennessee in steamers glide. 
Past former scenes of victory or defeat. 
And comrades' graves that dot the river's side. 

And down the Mississippi's swollen tide. 

The grandest trophy of tlie waning war, 

With not a fort or city on its banks, 

But floats on high the glorious stripes and stars. 

Down through the richly laden orange groves. 
Through flowering shrubs and beautiful exotics, 
Down where your regiment and the Sixteenth corps 
Were formed by balmy breezes from the tropics. 

You disembarked below the Crescent Citv, 
Where sugar cane and orange groves abound. 
Close by the buried dead of foi'mer wars 
You camp on Jackson's famous battle ground. 

Here you beheld the Creole population, 
In holy frenzy o'er their sacred law; 
Where masked absurdities of every nation 
Were represented in their Mardi Gras. 

With orders to report at Mobile Bay, 
You marched to the lake along the J^ewshell road; 
Green fields and flowers all o'er the landscape lay; 
The smoothest pathway armies ever trod. 

Lake Ponchartrain you crossed in stormy weather. 
High winds and chopping waves from ocean free; 
Your regiment nearly foundered altogether: 
Your craft was frail for such a stormy sea. 

You landed on the shores of Dauphin Island, 
And down to the gulf in joyous troops you go. 
Where drifted sand along the sea-washed shore 
Was white and spotless as the mountain snow. 



Here yoii had oysters fresh from Mobile Buy, 
And hunted shells amongst the ocean caves; 
Ijike happy school boys oh vacation day, 
Yoii bask in the sun, "or plunge beneath the waves. 

War with its hardships call you once again ; 
To General Canby next you bring relief", 
Tliat gallant soldier who has since been slain, 
The noble victim of the Modoc chief. 

You cross the bay, and up the Fish river swamp. 
In rear of Spanish fort to make a landing; 
The rebels fall back before you and decamp. 
And all arranged by previous understanding. 

You land amidst the gloomy pitch pine thickets. 
And march through resinous camps of pitch and tar, 
Driving before you all the rebel pickets, 
Who lure you on to more infernal war. 

Your camps are pitched beneath the forest shade; 
Your pine knot lires illuminate the scenes; 
Fresh gathered branches for your fragrant bed, 
You seek repose and court the land of dreams. 

You emerge from the woods in fronff^f Spanish Fort, 
Begrimmed with smoke and clothing glazed with pitch. 
Rebellion had reached this court of last resort. 
Besieged in Spanish Fort, their last grand ditch. 

The place was worthy of its reputation; 
Planted Torpedoes, nicely matched with gravel; 
Four years of skillful murderous preparation. 
Made Spanish Fort a hard old road to travel. 

Instinctively you step with cautious tread. 
Earth, air and Water, all combine and meet, 
In hurling death at your devoted head, 
While tiery billows roll beneath your feet. 

Ten days of active work with pick and spade. 
And wooden raorters on your picket line; 
Ten days of raining shell and cannonade, 
Your zig-zag works the rebel fort entwine. 

The rebels, seeing that their cause was lost, 
The evacuation of the fort began; 
You entered the works at midnight April ninth; 
The war was over, all your battles won. 

Now, when from war and tumult you were free. 
And rebel armies cease their stern commotion, 
The courageous Reed and gallant Major Knee 
Received their just and merited promotion. 

With other promotions all along the line. 
Fresh from the ranks, d-void of pomp or style. 
The noblest heroes of the civil war 
Were the glorious veterans of the rank and file. 

For one year, after all strife was over, 
You served as magistrates and courts of law. 
Recovering cotton and other goods in trover, 
A civil bureau under martial law. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 49 



An executive and judiciary both combined, 
Enforcing the law by order and obedience; 
Your pardoning power was clear and well defined, 
Administering to rebels the Oath of their allegience. 

The accredited agents of the Freedmen's Bureau, 
You protect the negroes in their sacred rights, 
Enforcing contracts with their former masters. 
Suppressing riots and preventing fights. 

You even wore the high judicial ermine, 

In causes of equity, common law or tort; 

In all decisions promptly you determine, 

And right or wrong a "court of last resort. 

Three years passed in battle and destruction, 
As glorious as the ancient wars of Greece; 
One year devoted to national reconstruction, 
And splendid achievements in the paths of peace. 

Four years devoted to your country's glory. 
Four years of life beneath the forest aisles, 
Four years complete your glorious warlike story. 
And your long march of fifteen thousand miles. 

Fourteen years of civil life is past 
Without a sign or word of mutual greeting; 
When to the rendezvous we come at last. 
To hold this glorious regimental meeting. 

This happy gathering, like a pleasant dream, 
Will bless our lives, and all its joys prolong; 
A glimpse of heaven with no dark veil between. 
This grand exchange of sentiment and song. 

"OUR GALLANT DEAI>"-The Noble Heroes who, although passed to the 
Shores of the Great Unknown, still Live in our Memories, and nre Cher- 
ished as among- the best of our number." Response by K. P. Clarkson, 
Des Moines. 

No Other subject stirs up such hallowed memories, or touches 
so tenderly the Jiearts of all Iowa, and of all the homes 
of our whole country. The war left us a nation of des- 
olate hearthstones, bereft of their best and brightest idols 
Nearly every graveyard has its soldier graves that are objects 
of veneration to the whole community and will be until the generation 
tliat "fought the good fight'' shall have passed away, and even their 
children and their children's children will cherish and annua}ly deco- 
rate the grass-grown mounds, in praiseworthy remembrance of the he- 
roic services of our "gallant dead" for the reunited country they died to 
save. 

But tliis is a privilege that only a few enjay. The great mass of "our 
gallant dead" sleep their last sleep *:-av away from home and friends, the 
most of them in unknown graves, and the bones of a vast number of 
them lie bleaching on war-beaten trails all ovei the "solid South" and 
around all their accursed prison hells. They consecrated the rebellious 
land with blood too precious for such unworthy soil. Their fame is 
now the Nation's greatest heritage. They were of the Greeks who bat- 
tled for their country's honor and will be forever entitled to the proud 



50 FIRST REUNION OF THE 



distinction of having fought for principles that all coming generations 
must make eternal or be forever unworthy of such heroic sacrifices. 
There must be no lialf way ground in history. The army that fouglit to 
preserve the whole country were patriots, and all those that opposed 
them were traitors, and are traitors still. The patriots are Greeks to be 
praised and venerat' d, while history will properly place the traitors on 
its blackest pages. 

In these days when politicians are so anxious to gain popularity with 
the rebellious horde, it is necessary that plain woids be spoken, and 
that treason be painted in its true colors. This is due to patriotism, and 
is mild punishment to traitors. We were not hii'ed Hessians that con- 
quered merely by sui)eriority of numbers, but soldiers for (Jod-iven prin- 
ciples that could not have been defeated. It was a war for the contiujui- 
tion of national supremacy and honor, and Trovidence rightly managed 
the contlict, so as to eradicate grievous wrongs, that had been upheld by 
the nation since the formation of the government. 

Nothing has struck the soldiers of the North in the last war with 
harder or more cruel force, th;in the false words of tlu' unworthy suc- 
cessor of Grant — our most gallant leader in war and peace. Si)eaking 
plainly the present President of the United States, when he was exhib- 
iting himself at Atlanta, Georgia, a few months ago, to the beaten but 
still defiant rebels, insulted every soldier in the Union Army, in com- 
paring the war^'to a struggle between Greeks, "and in stating that we"are 
entitled to no special credit for having conquered the Soutliern Greeks.'' 
Let us, at this, our tirst regimental union, hurl back his false and hol- 
low words with all the scorn that language can express. Such words 
sliould have blasted the tongue that si)ake them. It was the scheming 
trick of a political poltroon, but even the rebels were ashamed of a 
Northern man that would so debase himself, and none of them have 
ever asked the renomination to the Presidency that he was seeking to 
induce, while his name is execrated by all the gallant army he so foully 
slandered. 

If this be treading on political ground it is in vindication of those 
who were not time servers, but soldiers whose gallant defense of undy- 
ing principles placed a star on each shouldei of the foul slanderer, and 
whose votes elected him to the Presidency. Let us defend the gallant 
patriotism of our comrades, living and dead, wiienever it is assailed, and 
teach our children to honor the living and venerate the names of "our 
gallant dead" and remember that their lives were given freely to perpet- 
uate this land of liberty forever. 

The statistics sliow that the whole number of men called into the na- 
tional service during the war was 2.088,-523 and that about 1.-500.000 of 
these men were in active service; 96.089 were killed or died of wounds, 
and 184,331 from diseases — a total of 280,420 c]ead. The cost of the war 
to the government in mere dollars and cents was $3,098,233,078, while 
the different States expended, in bounties, or premiums to recruits $500,- 
000,000. The colored troops numbered 178,975 and their loss speaks vol- 
umes for their bravery, as out of that number 68,178 perished. To these 
must be added that great tower of strength and will that stood at the gov- 
ernment's helm tln-oughout the war and was the solid rock against 
which the hosts of disgraceful peace and armed traitors beat in vain — 
the great heart and brain that guided the Ship of State through the 
channels filled with shoals and quicksands and died, by the hands of an 
assassin, just as the ship was passing the last breaker— the self-made 
man that was Providentially raised up from among the i>oor and lowly 
to be the Savior of the Nation, like one of old, to be the Savior of the 
World — the grandest and greatest among our "gallant dead" — Abraham 
Lincoln. 

Shall it ever be said that all this blood and treasure was spent in 
vain ? Can a nation so drenched with blood be so base as to forget the 
heroism of our fallen comrades that constitute this grand army that has 
gone on before to a realm where traitors are unknown V Better that 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 51 



our land should become a barreudesert over which oceans should for- 
ever How to condemn the base int?ratitude and wash out all marks of 
such an ungrateful country's existence. 

The Iowa regiments lost 3,-iS2 killed or died of wounds; 8,482 died by- 
disease; 6,777 were disabled by wounds and sickness, and therefore dis- 
charged, making the State's total casualties 23,295 out of a total of 66,- 
8U three years men in the service, or considerably more than one-third 
the entire number. The records of the war department show .that Iowa 
furnished 75,835 men, including those that enlisted for short terms, or 
went into the regiments of other States. Iowa's loss was, therefore, 
greater than the statistics show. 

Only last Sunday I stood by the bedside of a dying Iowa soldier, and 
almost his last words were in "-fighting his battles over again" and re- 
counting his experience in the much dreaded Andersonville prison. He 
was but 16 years old when he enlisted and was at first rejected by the 
mustering officer, but the fire of patriotism was too strong in Thomas W. 
Eichell)erger, of the 7th Iowa Infantry, to be thus quenched. Changing 
his clothes and coloring up his face to give himself a more robust ap- 
pearance, he again presented himself to Lt. Chambers for examination, 
and not being recognized he was accepted. He was a patriotic boy,a brave 
soldier and a noble man. His love for his brother soldiers was strong 
enough to include all who were on the Union side and he took the soldier 
view of all controversies and always lentthe helping hand to comrades in 
distress. Having beeodaily associated with him for a year past and 
learned to love him asll pure, noble and cherished friend, I cannot re- 
frain rom paying this brief tribute to his noble qualities in life aud of 
the real pleasure he seemed to feel in death from the full knowledge of 
having served his God and his country faithfully and well. 

Speaking more directly of those we knew best and loved the most, 
those who shared witli us the regimental toils and camp, the march and 
the battlefield, and who are at this time and will be forever, the nearest 
our heart strings, and who, if such things are possible, are with us in 
spirit now. The Twelfth Iowa had 109 killed, or died of wounds, being 
over one-ninth of our entire number; 217 died by disease and 254 were 
discharged tor disability caused by wounds or sickness, making the 
total casualties 580 men, over two-thirds of the number originally sworn 
into tlie service being permanently disabled during the war, and it is 
perhaps too true now that fully three-fourths of those who marched so 
gallantly forth from Camp Union with the grand old regiment are now 
beneath the ground. The regiment "fought like brave men, long and 
well, "at Fort Donelson, where the heart of the North was raised from 
the great despondency caused by the flood of misfortunes to our armies 
during the disastrous campaigns of 1861 to a furore of jubilation never 
before witnessed on American soil, in which battle the General tliat 
the world hns just pronounced the greatest living soldier, statesman 
and man, witii less than 20,000 men, captured 17,623 prisoners, 17 heavy 
guns. 48field pieces, 20.000 sra;)ll arras and 3.000 horses— at Shiloh, the 
bloodiest battle of the war, numbers engaged considered, in which Iowa 
lost nearly as many men in killed and wounded as in all the other battles 
of the war and which was tlie day of blood, death and capture to our 
own regiment — at (Corinth. -lackson. Vicksbnrg — where we captured 15 
Generals, 31,600 soldiers, 39,000 muskets and 172 cannon, the greatest 
capture of men and arms from ^he invention of gunpowder up to that 
time, and whicJi battle broke tJie backbone of the rebellion, opening 
up the Mississippi river and cutting the Confederacy in twain, at Pleas- 
ant Hill, Yellow Bayou, Lake Chicot, Simsport, White River. Tupelo, 
Nashville Spanish Fort, Blakely and other less noted battles, and our 
"gallant dead" now lie buried in nearly every State in the Union. 

Shiloh was Iowa's greatest day of desolation and mourning, nearly 
all the lowii regiments in the service at that time being in the battle 
and all of them lost men lieavily. Three Iowa regiments — the Eighth, 
Twelfth and Fourteenth — were nearly destroyed, all the survivors of the 
three regiments that went on to the battle field being taken prisoners, 



just at the close of the first clays' (ij?ht,over one-third of the Twe fth being 
killed and wounded. It is useless to attempt to describe the suf- 
ferings of those that died in, or of those that survived the accursed 
l)rison hells. Language cannot portray their sufferings. Sutlice it to 
say that one-third of those tliat were taken prisoners died of ill-treatment 
or starvation, or were so physically wrecked that they were discharged 
and that over one-half of that gallant number tliat went forth to battle 
on that gory field, on that beautiful Sabbath morning, never reported to 
the regiment for duty again. 

May the everlasting peace of God be with "our gallant dead." We 
feel with a new force, gathered here without them Id-day, what a sac- 
ril'ice they made, aiul how, (iod help us in our mortality, and. God bless 
them in their re])0.se, we loved them then and almost worship them now. 
It is not the love of the mother for her cliild, that love transcendant, 
which heaven itself cannot match, but it is a love that comes first after 
the closest ties of kindred— a love th:tt men sharing Jiardships and 
dangers and daring death together learn to liave for each other — a tove 
that has in its origin no selHshness, in its continuance no ingratitude, 
and which, please God, will have in enduring time no forgetfulness. 

We cannot open our hearts to let the curious world read with garish 
interest of what is treasured there— the sacred memories of fast fellow- 
ship, the sacred conlidences. <>r the lover-like friendships of the camp 
and the inarch ; or, of the still more holv last confidences and last words, 
caught from the lips of comrades dying in battle, j^ison or hosi)ital. But 
in this presence, here to-day, with so many of oiW surviviuf^ comrades 
around ns, and with. i)erhaps, the spirits of ''our gallant dead'' hover- 
ing in benediction over us, as the phantom armies of the slain, above 
the clouds, were pictured as lighting in sympathy with the armies of 
the living on the field of Gettysburg, we may, with soldier hearts, speak 
here of the sharp, fresh pain we feel to-day as tliis scene so vividly re- 
calls anew the dismal agoiiy of sorrow we felt, when our clierished 
comrades fell by our side in the iron and leaden hail of Douelson. or, 
when they sank down in the red rain of death into the still redder soil of 
Shiloh's scarlet ground ; or when they died with yet greater sufferings 
and still greater heroism, with even starvation and death not able to 
make the white lips complain, amid the grisly horrors of Montgomery, 
Tuscaloosa. Macon and Libby, and how with life as sweet and the fu- 
ture as bright and their frieiuls as dear to them as ours are to us to-day. 
and with a hope tor their country last in their iiearts, and a smile of 
remembrance of the loved ones at home last on their faces, they died 
without a murmur, dying as heroes died — as Christ died — for others. 

There is no American Valhalla — no marbled and roval palace of im- 
mortality for our American heroes shiin in battle to inhabit alone— but 
there is reserved for them instead the nobler Valhalla of our own hearts, 
in which their memoiies and their souls are sovereign now and shall be 
always. 

In one of the cemeteries at Washington City, a modest shaft of pure 
marble rise over the last couch of a young lieutenant of the navy, who 
with the sun of his glory and fame, hardly yet shining in its earliest 
morning, went dowmi at his post in conflict. The marble bears to its hero 
this legend : "Here lies, given back bvthe sea. the i)ody of Lieutenant 
Rodman, slain at his place of duty.'" So of our heai ts to-day, comrades, 
and of our hearts so long as they shall beat, and of our children's hearts 
so long as gratitude shall teach to them its j)erfect lesson, it shall be 
said : "'Here lies, given back from the carnage of the unmarked graves 
of Donelson, Shiloh. Corinth, Tu))elo, and other gory fields, and from 
the unsi)eakable sorrows and horrors of the nndistinguishable trenches 
of the starvation pens of Montgomery, Tuscaloosa, Macon and Libby. 
the imaged memory of our noble, precious, immortal Dead. An angel 
even could not take from our hearts, nor take out of the hearts of men 
to come, nor from the heart of history, the gratitude of a memory so 
noble, and God Himself will guard and foster it. 



''Our Gallant Dead" are our greatest honors, our grandest trophies 
and our proudest scars. Their deaths made heroes of us all, and gave 
tlie 'JVelfth Iowa its proud record as a regiment baptized with tire and 
blood They sacriliced iiome, friends and life with heroic cheerfulness, 
and their last good bye still lingers in the hearts and affections of the 
cherished idols left at home . We all recollect the last nights with loved 
ones TJiey were nighLs of weeping without slumber ; heavy hearts 
left the last breakfast almost untouclied, and while loving eyes were 
strained to catch the last sight of loved forms as they faded m the dis- 
tance, outstretclied hands waived Hope's benediction for a safe return. 

This parting was our hardest trial. It was a struggle between 
patriotism and affection. Patriotism won the day, and fought the good 
tight till peace prevailed. 

"Ah ! grander in historic g-lory 

Thau the greatest that linger behind, 
They shall live in perpettial story, 

Who sa\ed the last hope of mankind. 
Our oath, that till manhood has perished, 

And virtue and honor are sped. 
We'll he true to the cause they cherished, 
* Eternally true, 'to our gallant dead.'" 



The "Red, White and Blue" was sur.g by Miss Verda Kelsey with 
magniticentspirit, the entire assembly joining in the chorus. 

CANE PHESENTATIONS. 

Just now Col. Henderson arose, and stepping toward Col. Wood 
said : 

•'My Old Commander— The Twelfth Iowa Regiment has given 
me a new command. Their money bought this cane, and I am instruct- 
ed to present it to you with these words : That ;is you could always lean 
upon them in battle, they want you by this tolvcn to know that as 
you pass down the western hill-side of life you may lean implicitly upon 
their warm heart's affections. Accept it as a token of their enduring 
love." 

Col. Wood took the cane, trembling with visible emotion, and re- 
covering his broken voice said : 

"Col Henderson and Comrades of the Twelfth— I accept this token 
of your devoted love. I will retain it ever, and can never forget what it 
means; and if ever again the hand of treason should be raised against 
the flag of our country— although I may be an old man and bearing 
heavily on this staff— I swear by t lie living Godl will come from my 
distant home to Delaware, and, raising my voice as never before, will cry 
out: "Fall m Twelfth Iowa; close order— Makch ! and every one of you 
will be found in your old places in the ranks." 

The fire that burned in the ColoneFseye at Donelson was again 
seen at this moment, and bursts of applause greeted the regimental com- 
mander. 

Maj. Reed, of Waukon, now stepped forwardand took Lieut. Abner 
Dunham's hand and said: 

"Your comrades, appreciating all you have done to bring us to 
gether in this reunion, instruct me to present you with this cane, 
which I do with pleasure, knowing by years of service with you how 
well you deserve this token of your comrades' love.'' 

The Lieutenant took the cane and endeavored to express his thanks. 



54 FIRST REUNION OF THE 

but in spite of repeated efforts found his emotions too great for him. 
With his tears were mingled those of many of his comrades. 

John F. Merry now sung "The Soldiers' Reunion" which was called 
for by the audience, and was warmly api)lauded. 

Un the platform was the flag of Company C presented by the ladies 
of the Upp"r Iowa University through the preceptress,Miss Lizzie Sorin, 
and wliicli was returned to her after "this cruel war was over." Also 
the Hag carried by the regiment at Corinth and in that battle held up de- 
fiantly before the enemy by Maj. J. D. Cole of Lansing, after he 
was shot through the body, and would not yield until he fell from loss 
of blood. And here was the regimental banner and its old flag in the 
hands of Lieut. IL J. Grannis, of Fayette, which had been m so many 
battles that it hung in speaking shreds ; whose hands they never left 
during the war, save when in rebel prison pens a i)risoner. He waived 
it before the audience, and said; "This is the flag we carried," quoting 
a line of the song just sung, "and this is the man who carried it," said 
Maj. Reed, pointing to Color Sergeant Grannls. Whereupon Comstock 
proposed three cheers for our Color Bearer who carried our colors 
from '61 to '06. 

Col. D. B. Henderson, proposed three rousing cheers for tlie people 
of Manchester, the Eldora and Manchester bands, and the Dubuque 
(| Drum Corps, who attended in a body at their own expense, and who 
won great praise. 



Mi 



THE BROTHERHOOD OF THE REUNION. 



It is with a mingled feeling of pleasure and pride that we write of 
the complete and gratifying success of the First Annual Reunion of the 
Twelfth Iowa Regiment, held at Manchester, on the 6th and 7th inst., 
the anniversary days of the battle of Shiloh. As a soldier in the noble 
old Regiment and as a participant in the glad Reunion, we write of the 
occasion with a heart fllled with feelings such as only a soldier can ap- 
preciate. The brotherhood of comradeship in the army is as close a 
bond and as tender a tie as ever binds men together. Nothing so tests 
the manhood of men as the test of army life, and nothing so proves it. 
The selfishness or the unselfishness of a man is quickly demonstrated 
there, and the men who become friends under such circumstances of 
peril and proof, find in the enduring tie the noblest freemasonry of 
( friendship capable of being formed between men. It was in memory 
\ of a friendship so sublime as this, that the survivors of the Twelfth 
Iowa Regiment came together in this Reunion at Manchester, fifteen 
years after the close of the war, and eighteen years from the time of 
the battle of Shiloh. In our dispatches from Manchester was told, in 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 65 

an incomplete way, a part of what was done at the Reunion. But no 
reporter could describe the heart there was in it all, nor how tender grew 
the strong men as they once more, after so long a separation, took each 
other by the hand. Only those who were there as participants can know 
as to that, and only soldiers can even imagine what it was. 

A permanent organization was formed of the survivors of the 
Twelfth, and means are to be instituted to search out and gather 
into the membership all those who have left the State or moved to 
distant homes. We shall strive thus to bring together the last one of 
our surviving comrades, and once more stand together a united brother- 
hood preserving our friendships and meeting in regular anniversaries 
so long as any of us survive. It is a noble aspiration, and who that 
reveres patriotism or loves his kind will not bid it fervent godspeed ? 

The following short sketch of the history of the Regiment, in the 
Manchester Democrat, will be of interest just now in reviving in the 
public mind the services of this noble Regiment : 

The Twelfth Regiment was mustered into the service at Dubuque 
inl^fovember, 1861, and in the following February took part in the bat- 
tles which resultecf in the capture of Fort Donelson. 

Eighteen y^ars ago to-day this Regiment occupied a central posi- 
tion on the battle held at Sliiloh, and held their place until six o'clock 
in the evening, when about four hundred of them were overpowered 
and obliged to surrender, but not until after one hundred and thirteen 
of their number were killed or wounded. 

For two hours before the surrender the Twelfth, with two or three 
other Regiments, were entirely surrounded, and in fact, contended 
against the entire rebel army. Those taken prisoners were exchanged, 
and the Regiment reorganized in time to take part in all the principal 
battles of the Vicksburg campaign. 

The Twelfth took part in the battle of Tupelo, Miss., in July, 1864, 
and out of two hundred men engaged, lost sixty-three in killed and 
wounded. The Regiment also fought bravely at the battle of Nash- 
ville, and during its term of service did about as much fighting as any 
Regiment in the war of the rebellion, being in twenty-three battles and 
under tire one hundred and twelve days. And each of these battles 
brought the survivors closer to each other than before, and there are 
few relations in life where the bonds of friendship are stronger than 
those that exist between such men. 

Around such a proud and precious record as this, may not the sur- 
vivors of the Regiment cluster to preserve still more certainly to the 
future the splendid heritage of its fame ! 



RESOLUTIONS. 



Mr. Clarkson, from the committee on resolutions, reported the 
following, which were adopted : 

Whereas, The city of Mancliester has placed at the disposal of the 
Twelfth Iowa Infantry Volunteers, for their use free of cliarge, the city 
halls, and also donated generously in cash ; and 

WiiEKEAS, The ladies of Manchester, have generously tendered 
said Regiment a rich and bountiful banquet, surrounded by decorations 
and beauties which only patriotic zeal and woman's taste could collect ; 
and 

Whereas, The Iowa National Guards, of this county, have spared 
no pains to contribute to the pleasure of this Reunion, thus bringing 
the soldiers of the past and the soldiers of the future warmly together ; 
and 

Whereas, Mr. 11. L. Rann of the Manchester Press, has devoted 
himself and his paper to promote the interests of this gathering, 
refusing ail compensation, and the Manchester Democrat has thrown 
its columns open for the interests of the Regiment, therefore, be it 

Resolved. That the Twelfth Iowa Infantry Volunteers, to each and 
all of those who have thus kindly and generously contributed to the 
happiness ami success of this our first Reunion, do hereby extend their 
sincere and heartfelt thanks, and they will ever remember the city of 
Manchester as a center of kindness, hospitality beauty and worth. 

Resolved, That we gratefully commend the good taste of those of 
our number wlio selected Manchester as tlie place of meeting of this 
Reunion, being the city so generally celebrated for the two things we 
had so little of in the army — butter and eggs . 

Resolved, That the mothers, wives, sisters, daughters and children 
of the Twelfth Iowa are members of the organization this day effected ; 
that they are as honorably entitled to this membership as any one who 
fought and veteranized, and as such members they are- cordially in- 
vited and earnestly requested to attend the Reunions of the Regiment. 

Resolved, That we desire, in this public manner, to tender to Col. 
J. J. Woods, our old commander, our heartfelt tlianks for coming from 
the extreme southern part of an adjoining Strte to be present with us 
at this our first Reunion, and for the noble and eloquent address with 
wliich hetgreeted us. His memory shall live with us and with the his- 
tory of the Regiment while life lasts and history endures. 

Resolved, That our thanks are especially due to Lt. Abner Dun- 
ham for the faithful and efficient manner in which he worked up this 
Reunion, resulting as it has in the most enjoyable gathering in the life 
time of those present. While the Reunion itself will always be remem- 
bered with pleasure, the happiness enjoyed on this occasion will always 
remind us of the brave and genial spirit that made possible this meet- 
ing of the kindred spirits of the Twelfth Iowa; 



THE ABSENT MEMBERS OF THE REGIMENT. 



STAFF. 

Major S. D. Brodtbeck, Higlihind. ill. 

Dr. C. C. Parker, Fayette, Iowa. 

J. W. Taylor, Dubuque, Iowa. 

N. E. Duncan, Kansas City, Missouri. 

COMPAXY A. 



A. J. Wiokhim, EMora, Iowa. 
Frank (\ Cromwell, Alcleii. iDwa. 
Z. N. Miller, Sprajju^viUe, Iowa. 
Samuel Walker, Macwille, Mo. 
J. D. Coniier. Eklora, Iowa. 

B. F. Ibach. Eklora, Iowa. 

D. V. Ellsworth, Eklora, Iowa. 
Levi Dobins, Eldora, Iowa. 

G. \V. Mitchell, New Providence, Iowa. 

E. S. Sawin, Union, Iowa. 
Job Crist, Eklora, Iowa. 

Thos. H. Wilsiwi, loM-a Falls, lov.-a. 
Geo. W. Mooii'. .Ma>.sville Iowa. 
H. Creamer, Nevada, Iowa. 

Simon LeFcv 



Wm. Mann, Iowa Falls. Iowa. 
Martin SaviU'r, W('l).;tt'r Citv, Iowa. 
Wm. Hallester, Eldorado, I('>wa. 
I. H. Bowers, El dorado, Iowa. 
T. H. Bailev, Eklora, lowii. 
Nathan Welch, DeWitt 111. 
Samuel Jackson, Dewitt, 111. 
M. Kidwiler. Iowa Falls. Iowa. 
Wm. G. McPherson, Austin, Minn. 
T. Fountain, Maishalltov^'n, Iowa. 
Geo. W. Keed, Hockport, Mo. 
G. W. Uulow, South Bend, Ind. 
(t. H. Haskins, Marysville. Mo. 
tlobt. Morris, Edg-ewood. la. 
er, Berlin, Iowa. 



COMPANY ii. 



M. H.Pratt, Waukon, Iowa. 
II. G. Pratt, Waukon, Iowa. 
Hugh McCabe, Waukon, Iowa. 
John Dowling, Waukon, Iowa. 
Frank Klees, Waukon, Iowa. 
I. D. S. Isted, Milwaukee, Wis. 
L. D. Bearee, Monona, Iowa. 
Geo. Ibach, Preston, Iowa. 



Steven Thibedo, Kossville, Iowa. 

W. B. Bort, Victory, Wis. 

J. P. Jackson, Harper's Ferry, Iowa. 

Fred Monk, Union City, Iowa. 

C. C. Ogan, Monroe, Minn. 

C. Deamy, Dayton, Ohio. 

A. West, Dubuque, Iowa. 

Wm. P. Winter, Bufifak) Fork, Iowa. 



COMP.ANY C. 



J. F. Hutchins, Minneapolis, Minn. 
Wm. Quivey. (^elwein, Iowa. 
John Kent, Oelwein, Iowa. 
Silas Crossman, Elgin, Iowa. 
Jas. Carmichael, lUyria, Iowa 
Boss Mattock.s, Elgin, Iowa. 
Ben.!. Delezene, Big Bend, Neb. 



.1. D. Baker, Montevad<i, Minn. 

J. L. Mattocks, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Wm. L. Jordan. Wisner, Neb. 

Wilson Kin'/, Wisner, Neb. 

A. C. Bushnell, Waukon, Iowa. 

G. W. Cook, Reno, Kan. 

E. J. Al)bott, West Union, Iowa. 



John Strong-, Mill, Iowa. 

COMPANY I). 

F. D. Thompson, Nevada, Iowa. J. C. Dalley, Vinton, Iowa. 

S. B. Burch, Olatlie, Kan. E. A. Butolph, Cadar Rapids, Iowa. 

R. K. Soper, Martcdle, Iowa. D. E. Steadtnan, Vinton, Iowa. 

H. C. Mooreland, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Francis Curren, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

John H. Stibbs, Sparta, Tenn. 

COMPANY E. 



Wm. Hamilton, LaPort City, Iowa. 
B. E. Eberhart, lavPort City, Iowa. 
E. Sawyer, LaPort City, Iowa. 
N. Shroyer, Gilbertsville, Iowa. 
J. V. Jones, Geneva, Iowa. 
R. L. Bird, Maysville, Iowa. 
Jas. Cook, New Castle, Neb. 
Silvester. Cook, New Castle, Neb. 
Ezera Strong, Sioux City, Iowa. 
Oliver Lichtv, Waterloo, Iowa. 

Charles Ochs 



A. W. Myers, Shell Rock, Iowa. 

Oliver Sharp, Finehford, Iowa. 

M. V. |{, Sunderlaufi, Janesville, la. 

Anthony Biler. Waterloo, Iowa. 

H. F. Coon, Waterloo, Iowa. 

H. J. Harrison, Washington, D. C. 

G. L. Seeber, Sabula, Iowa. 

C. P. Collins, Charles City, lowsi. 

C. Haywood, Dysart, Iowa. 

Nathan Church, Webster City, Iowa. 

, Ackley, Iowa. 



5S 



TWELFT-H IOWA V. V. INFANTJiT. 



~r 



COMPANY K. 



G. W. Wooldri(i!?e, Elkport, Iowa. .Isis. W. Pottor, Favette, Iowa. 

Oen. W. Gift, I'onria, 111. H. .). F. Small. Chicapo, 111. 

It. C. Eldrifljrt', Nceley, Neb. .John Hrcninor, Yankton, Dakota. 

T,C. Ni'llson, Hazlc'ton, Iowa. A. .1. Roc, KurlinATton, Iowa, 

.lohn Hoc, D\ibii(iut', Iowa. 



COMPANY G. 



Tlioo. Stf'pn, Gniahii, .Xcliraska. 
lii-nry Stt-cn, Hooper, Nebraska. 
I). O.Aakor, Uidj^way, Iowa, 
(5. H. Nass, Dcforah, Iowa, 
.lohn (). Johnson, Decorah, Iowa. 
.John Steen, Wahoo, Nob. 
L. i> Townsley, Chioag-o, 111. 
.Jacob Woineldorf, Decorah, Iowa. 
Ancrow Hulvcr.son, Decorah, Iowa. 
A. E. Anderson, Dec;irah, Iowa. 



(). V. Ro(;k3vol(l, Thoten, Iowa. 
.John Ok'son, Thoten, Iowa. 
Geo. Kirkland, F'reeport, Iowa. 
W. L. Windsor, Clinton, Mo. 
G. W. Sharp, Prankville, Iowa. 
E. V. Andrus, Decorah, Iowa. 
A. A. Carey, Castalia, Iowa. 
V. It. Dunn, Honair, Iowa. 
S. West, Decorah, Iowa. 
Geo. Smith, Decorah, Iowa. 



COMPANY' H. 



John Ware, Hurlington, Iowa. 
John VanAnda,.Frecmont, Neb. 
W. L. C. Atkinson, Omaha, Neb. 
Ilobert Fischei, Colesbuig, Iowa. Ci. 

S(iuire Fischel, Colesbiir>>-, Iowa. A 

Alfred G. Gostin^, Strawberry Point, Iowa. It 
James M. Crosby, Kpworth, Iowa. G. 

N. K. Duncan, Kansas City, Mo. J 



Ed. Heeket, Dubmiue, Iowa 



B. A. Clark, Colesburg, low .. 
W. H. Cock, Dubuque, Iowa. 
A. J. Davis, Dubuque, Iowa. 

S. Doufrlass, McGres'or, Iowa. 

C. (Jilmore, Indianapolis, Indiana. 

M. Grimes, Indianapolis, Indiana. 

W. Hoerner, Dubuque, If)wa, 
Shorter. Shell Rock, Iowa. 



S. B. Sloan, Colesburjr, Iowa. 



W. S. Wisegarver, Colcsbur^-. Iowa. 



COMPANY I. 



A. li. Parmer, liincolii. Neb. 
Dave Paiip, Erie, Kiipfeas. 



E. !<'. Mathis. Oiniihi, Neb. 
J. J. Brown, Ohio, Neb. 



E. B. Campbell, Armstrons- (irove, Iowa. 
John S. Kay, Naponee, Neb. 



Warrer. Coats, Itoseville, II 
COMPANY K. 



Charles D. Bdling-s, Ohio, N 
J. B. Morgati, Davenport, I 



The above Roll is as nearly correct as we are at present no. 
certain. 

G. E. COMSTOCK, 
, Co. "C,"12thl. V. V. 1. 



/> 



^n^yL-^lj^^ 




. ni^.y) 



y 



^^-r^. 



iS^iSS^S&^^^^iSS^^^^^S 




— ^ ^ — ^^^^ — ^ _^_.^^___ ^ 



SECOND REUNION 



OF THE 



Twelfth lowa V. t InfantriJ, 



HELD AT 



MANCHESTER, IOWA, 



ON 



Wednesday and Thursday, May 21 and 22, 1884. 



DUBUQUE, IOWA 

C. U. DORR PRESS. 
18S4. 



oA 






\V 







'^3U/-\^^ 



Jl /'OS 



Attention II 



COMRADE: 

The Committee on Publication send you this pam- 
phlet containing the proceedings of our last re-union. We 
send a copy to each surviving comrade whose address we 
have, and we hope that those who have not alread}- paid for '^ 

the hook will remit to our Treasurer, G. H. Morisey, of Man- 
chester, Delaware County, Iowa, the amount of its cost, 25 
cents. All who signed our by-laws, and become members of 
our society, and whose names appear under Section VIII on 
page 10 of this book, are entitled to this copy free. We are 
anxious that all who can will become members of our society, '^ 

and if you will send one dollar to Treasurer Morisey, and di- 
rect him to do so, he will inscribe your name on the roll, ma- 
king vou a member, and you will then be entitled to this book 
without additional cost, but unless this is done, we hope ^■ou 
will be able to send the 25 cents. If \'ou know of any com- to 

rade who served in our regiment, and whose name does not 
appear in our book, will you be kind enough to send his name to 

and address to our secretary. 

Respectfully, 

COMMITTEE. 



\- 



<i 



o'\ 






.\^"^ 



COMMITTEES. 



M. F. Le Roy, 
Harry Bradley, 
Mrs. S. M. Sherwood, 
Mrs. Dr. C- C. Bradley, 
Misses Laura Doolittle, 
Mattie Toogood, 
Emily Seeds, 
Lulu James, 



HALL DECORATIONS. 
W. C. WiLLSON, 

Frank Smith, 
Mrs. Dr. N. S. Craig, 
Mrs. F. Bethel, 
Ella Sherman, 
Winnie Meserve, 
Etta Gemmill, 
Susie Paxson, 



F. Cornish, 
B. Keller, 
Mrs. E. M. Carr, 
Mrs. p. H. Snider, 
Sadie Hutchinson 
Annie Kinnie, 
Minnie Work, 
Nellie Flint, 



Hortense Trenchard. 



STREET DECORATION. 

B. H. Keller, A. M. Sherwood, 

F. P. Doolittle, Mrs. H. N. Cornish, 

Mrs. Enoch Allen, Mrs. B. W, Jewell, 

Misses Mattie Dawson, Mary Morey, 
Lilly McFee, Minnie Maryin, 



Thos. Toogood, 
Mrs. W. C. Cawley, 
Miss Nellie Doolittle 
Anna Mc Fee, 
Mamie Satterlee. 



FROM W. A. MORSE POST, G. A. R. 

R. M. Marvin, S. E. Meserve, A. C. Carter. 

ENTERTAINMENT. 

Mrs. W. C. Cawley, Mrs G. W. Morrey, Mrs. N. F. Lawrence 

Mrs. Crawford Hutchinsdn, Mrs. P. H. Snider, Mrs. E. M. Carr 

Misses Alice Willson, Nellie Paxson. 

FINANCE. 

W. H. NoRRis, G.W.Dunham, J.W. Ford, K.M.Marvin 



One hundred and fifty dollars was raised and disbursed by this committee to 
contribute to our happiness. The success of the reunion is largely due to the un- 
tiring energies and labors of the above named committees, also the hospitality 
and liberality of the citizens of Manchester in opening their hearts and homes to 
make us thrice welcome. 

Respectfully, 

( J. H. Stibbs. 
COMMITTEE- J. E. Simpson, 

/ G. E. COMSTOCK, 



lE^ :E2, O O- X?, .^fii. Is/d: 2s/L E. 
Wednesday Forenoon. 

Mooting Coinriuies ;it tniins, by VV. A. Morso I'ost, C. A. U.. Icdby tlio Kldoia 
Silver (lornct Hiuul. 
10 :(X) A.M.— Assciiihly at City Hall- (loneral liand-sliakiiig and visiUnK. 

VVflfoinc, liy I'ost Coniniander, J. 15. Sattkklkk. 
He.spon.se, by Coi„ .Iack Stii'.hs. 

1 2:00 M — Dinner. 

2 :00 r. M.— Assoniblv. Stroot I'aiade, nndor coninuind of Col. .lack Stil)bs. All Old 

Soldiers invited to "Kali In." Masic. lUisine.ss. Visitint;. 

KeadiuK Letters Iioni absent Coiniados. Singing Camp Songs and Telling 

Stories. 

.5 :00 r. M.— Dress Parade. 

Supper. * 

7 -00 r. M.— Assembly. Mnsic. Prayer bv Kiev. V. Humphhrv. Cliaplain 12th 

Iowa. Words of Welcome, in behalf of the City of Manchester, by Mayor 

.I.T. AniioTT. Uesponse. by Col. I). B. Hkndkk.son. 

ADDRESSES-20 MINUTES EACH. 
"The 12th Iowa at Tnpelo, Mi.ss."— P.y C<)1. \V. K. Mak.shat.l, of the 7tli Minne- 
sota Infantry. 

"The KoU Call."— After the Kattle— A Poem.— By Col. .Iack STini-.s. 
"Wliat I saw at Nashville, Tenn."— l?y Kev. F. Humpiirky. 

MUSIC. 
"The Bitter Pill at Fort Donahlson."— By Col. VVm.T. Shaw, of the 14th Iowa 
Infantry. ,,. .. „ 

"The Famous Charge of the Entire Army. May 22, 18G3, at \ieksburg. Miss.' —By 
Hon. II. C. CuuTi.s. 

GRAND LOVE FEAST. 
"The (ierman version of Barbara Freitchic,"— By Co1..Ia("K STir.r.s. 
Make a Speech, Sing a Song, Tell a Story, or be reduced to the ranks .Five min- 
utes each. ' Tattoo. Taps. Lights Out. 



Thursday Morning. 

G :00 A.M.— Reveille. 

!) :OUA.M.— Assemldy. Music. Business. Hei)ort of Committees. Visiting. 

Banquet— Program. 

1 :00r. M.— firacc, by Kev. F. Humi'huky. 12th Iowa Deploy as Skirmishers ! 

(leneral Engagement. Surgeons and Drum Corps to the rear, with Ambn- 

liinees and .Stretchers ! 

2 :00 1*. M.— Ke-assemble at Hall. 

Toasts and Farewells. 

I. Iowa and Our Whole Country. Their Liberties we Prize, and Their Rights wo Will 
Maintain, with our Lives, onv Fortunes, and our Sacred Honors. 

Hesfoiise—Vxit\. B. K. SHEKMAN. 

II. Our Brigade Commanders atid Invited Cuests. 

y^t-.T/fJw.sv— Capt. S. R. Edgington. 

III. Sliiloh— Tlu' Saddest, Darkest Hour in Our History, "Fame's Eternal Camping 
Cround" for so manv of the Best and Bravest of our" number. 

RfspOHse—diiW. ,J. M. TUTTLE. 

IV. The Oi)))osing Armies of 18G1-65— Their Relations Then and Now. 

ResJ<on.<:e—Co\. D. B. HeNHKHSOK. 

V. Greenbacks and (J raybaek.s— The first we could not keep with us, the last were 
hard to drive away. 

R,spo>ise—\\ovt. J. N. Weaver. 

VI. The Citi/.(^iis of Manchester— Their Hospitality and Loyalty— Mal<ing their Homes 
our Homes, and our Re-nnion a Success. 

K<-s/'0/lsi — R. P. CLARK.SON. 

VII. Iowa at Shiloh— Heroes of the "Hornets' Nest" and "Holl'.s Hollow." They Held 
their Line of Battle throughout the day, on the memorable (Uh of Ai)ril, 1H(;2 : they 
sacrificed themselves, but saved the remainder of (irant's Army from capture, or 
entire deslriu^tion. 

/iVa/o//\, — Col. J. L. GKDnEs, 8th Iowa Infantry. 

VIII. "It's All Itiglit ! "— A Poem, Suggested l)y Charley Larson's last words tn Col. Ilfii- 
deisoii. -(Pagi' 21, pam|>lilet.) 

H,-spnnsi-—\\nn. J. W. Shannon. 

Benediction. 



Reunion 1 2th Iowa V. V. Infantry, 

May 21st and 22d. 



Wednesday morning, May 21st, dawned bright and beautiful; 
nature arrayed in her most gorgeous robes, was ready to welcome 
the heroes of war and peace. The streets and dwellings were 
decked with flags and wreaths, all indicating the hearty welcome 
Manchester was ready to extend the old 12th Iowa. 

Many of the boys came the day previous, to be ready to ioin in 
all the gladness the occasion might afford them, and at train time 
accompanied by W. A. Morse Post, of the Grand Army of the Re- 
public, proceeded to the depot to welcome those who should come 
that morning. Amid the cheers of their comrades, a large number 
stepped ofi' the cars. After the hearty greetings the order to "fall in" 
was given and the march was made to the city hall, where the exer- 
cises were to take place. 

Immediately on entering the hall, the Manchester Glee Club 
sang "The Battle Cry of Freedom," in splendid slyle. At the last 
verse the audience, filling the room, rose and joined in the chorus, 
making the old hall resound with the grand melody. 

Col. S. G. Knee, President of the veteran Association, then in- 
troduced Commander J. B. Satterlee, who, on behalf of W. A. 
Morse Post and the citizens of Manchester, welcomed the veter- 
ans to the city. He said he had been delegated to open this skir- 
mish, that he never was in worse condition to perform such a 
duty, and that all he could do, was on behalf of W. A. Morse 
Post and the good people of Manchester, to say "welcome! wel- 
come! thrice welcome!" 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



To this Col. Jack Stibbs responded as follows: 

Commander SaHerlce and Comrades of 3Iorsc Post: 

I have been delegated by my comrades of the Twelfth Iowa here assembled, 
to reply to your address, and to thank you, and through you, the citizens of 
Manchester, for the kind and generous welcome that has been extended us. 
I'^our years ago, our first reunion was held in your city, and after it was over 
there was a universal feeling among those who were present that we could 
never hope to receive so hearty a reception in any other place as had been 
tendered by your good people here. Therefore, when we came to consider the 
question of where to hold the reunion this year, and were assured by our Se- 
cretary, Dunham, and others iiere, that the people of Manchester would be glad 
to entertain us once more, we were selfish enough to decide to again accept of 
your hospitality. 

We are especially pleased on this occasion to be welcomed by an associa- 
tion of soldiers, and particularly by the Morse Post, for he whose name you* 
have adopted, Capt. W. A. Morse, was one of our number. A brave and gal- 
lant officer, a good citizen and a generous fellow, whom we all loved and re- 
spected. Then too, you each know what war means, and can appreciate, as 
only soldiers can, the feelings that have prompted us to assemble here to day. 
Each one of us who is here has made more or less of a sacrifice to attend this 
meeting, and I assure you we are prompted by no selfish motives, but are act- 
uated simply by feelings akin to those which cause a family of children to tra- 
vel from the four quarters of a continent to meet around the old family board 
on Thanksgiving day. This, to us as a regiment, is our Thanksgiving Day. 
Many <jf us have not met for more than twenty years, but our friendships were 
formed and cemented under circumstances that made them enduring, and we 
each feel, as the years pass that make us older, that our love and affection for 
old comrades is constantly growing rather than diminishing. 

For myself I can say, and I am sure 1 but express the feelings of my com- 
rades here, I have forgotten the disagreeable features of our service, and in 
thinking of the old Twelfth Iowa I try to remember only the glorious record 
made by the regiment, the heroic bravery so often displayed by its members, 
the sturdy determination so fully expressed to keep our flag afloat until the 
last Rebel stronghold was taken, the patient enduring of hardships and priva- 
tions, and above all. the jolly fun which, despite our hard service, was always 
found in camp, and I come hereto-day feeling that to each survivor who honora- 
bly bore the badge of the old Regiment, I want to hold out both hands and say, 
"Comrade, I love you." This being done, I shall feel that I have been well re- 
paid for my visit here. We hope while here to so conduct ourselves that your 
citizens will be glad to see us again, but I must warn you, that it is a part of 
our purpose to shake off as nearly as possible the effects of the past twenty 
years, and for two days at least, we mean to be boys again. So do not be 
surprised if all we do is not in keeping with our gray hairs and wrinkled faces. 
Again 1 thank you for your welcome. 

A round of hearly applause greeted this speech, showing' the 
appreciation of the audience. "When Johnnie Comes Marching 
Home," was then sung by the choir with stirring eflect. 

During the hour devoted to this part of the program the El- 
dora Silver Cornet Band of 12 pieces, Det Hunter, leader, played 
several inspiring airs, adding greatly to the interest of the 
meeting. 

The Hall was hung on every side, with the national colors, and 
decorated with evergreens and flowers, and on the wall, at the 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



west end were conspicuous the mottoes, — "To the Livinj[j, Cheer- 
ful Praises," — ^"To the Dead, Bright Flowers — Sweet Memories." 
An adjournment was announced to 2 p. m. 

AFTERNOON. 

At 2 p. m. took place the street parade under command of Col. 
Jack Stibbs, led by the Cornet Band and Co. C. I. N.G.,of Man- 
chester, commanded by J. W. Ford, after which all repaired to the 
hall. 

Capt. E. B. Soper of Emmetsburg, read the plan for the per- 
manent organization of the survivors of the 12th Iowa, which was 
as follows: 

Articles of Incorporation of the Society of the Tivclfth Regi- 
ment of Iowa Veteran Volunteers. 

ARTICLE I. 

The name of this corporation shall be the Society of the TweKth (12) 
Regiment of Iowa Veteran Volunteers. 

ARTICLE II. 

This Society shall be composed of persons who served in and were hon- 
orably discharged from tiie Twelfth Regiment of Iowa Volimteer Infantiy, 
during or at tiie close of the war of the Rebellion, and shall be admitted to 
membership in such manner as may be provided by the By-Laws of this Cor- 
poration. 

ARTICLE III. 

The principle place of busmess of this corporation shall be at Manches- 
ter, Delaware County, Iowa; but business may be transacted and elections 
held at any reunion of the survivors of said Regiment wherever the same 
may be held. 

ARTICLE IV. 

The purposes and objects of this corporation shall be: 
ist. To institute and maintain an organization of the surviving members 
of the late Twelfth Regiment of Iowa Infantry Volunteers. 

2nd. To cause to be prepared a roster by companies of all members of 
said Regiment not deceased while in the military service of the United 
States and to make and keep up thereon a record of the post office address, 
occupation and general character of all surviving members thereof, and to as- 
certain and record the date, place and cause of death of all now or hereafter 
deceased. 

3d. To promote fellowship and social intercourse among the surviving 
members thereof by holding reunions and such other meetings as may be 
provided for by the By-Laws of the corporation. 

4th. To look after the disabled, needy and unfortunate members thereof 
whether members of this Society or not and render them such aid and as- 
sistance, as may be proper in the premises. 



SECOND RKUNION OF THE 



5th. To procure funds, donations and otherwise, and to take and hold 
property in its corporate name for the purpose of carryinj^ out the objects 
aforesaid. 

ARTICLE V. 

The officers of tliis corporation shall consist ol a president, a vice presi- 
dent, a secretary, a treasurer and five (5) directors, who shall have the control 
and nianaji:enient of the business of the corporation, and wlio shall be elected 
at such times and in such manner as may bo provided in the l>y-Laws of the 
corporation. 

ARTICLE VI. 

Tills corporation shall commence witli the adoption of these articles and 
continue twenty years. Its indebtedness shall at no time exceed five hundred 
dollars and the private property of its numbers shall be exempt from corpor- 
ate debts. 

ARTICLE VII. 

The names of the officers of this corpijiation for the first year of its ex- 
istence are as follows: 

President, S. R. Edgington. 
Vice President, D. W- Reed. 
Secretary, Abner Dunham. 
Treasurer, Geo. H. Morisey. 

Directors, S. G. Knee, J. H. Stibbs, R. P. Clarkson, John Steen. 
Ben. Eberheart. 

The undersigned members of the 12th Regiment Iowa Volunteer In- 
fantry during the war of the Rebellion having associated themselves for the 
purposes hereinbefore expressed do hereby adopt, make, sign and execute 
the foregoing articles of incorporation, dated at Manchester, Iowa, this 21st 
day of April, A. D. 1884. 

E. B. SopER, D. B. Hendersom, 

S. D. Brodbeck, Geo. H: Morisey, 

R. P. Clarkson, J. H. Stubs, 

J. E. Simpson, D. W. Reed, 

Abner Dunham, S. R. Edgington, 

State of Iowa, \ Be it remembered that on the 21st 

Delaware County. ) day of May, A. D. 1884, before the un- 

dersigned, a notary republic, within and tor aforesaid county and state, person- 
ally appeared; E. B. Soper, D. B. Henderson, Geo. H. Morisey, R. P. Clark- 
son, J. H. Stibbs, J. E. Simpson, D. VV. Reed, Abner Dunham, S. R- Edging- 
ton, to me personally known 10 be the identical persons who hath signed 
and executed the foregoing articles of incorporation and severaly acknowledged 
the execution of the same to be their voluntary act and deed for purposes 
therein expressed. 

Witness my hand and official seal hereto affixed at 
[seal] Manchester, this day and year first above written- 

VV. H- Norris, Notary Public 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTP.Y. 



They were then referred to a committee consistini^ of Capt. So- 
per, R. P. Clarkson, Col. Jack Stibbs, Maj. D. W. Reed and Maj, 
G. FI. Morisey, who submitted the following by-laws, which 
were adopted: 

By-Laws of the Society of the Twcl/th Regiment oj lozva Vete- 
ran Volunteers. 

I. 

Any person wiio served in, and was honorably discliarj^ed from, the 12th 
Rejjiment Iowa Infantry Volunteers, may become a member of this Society 
by signing these By-Laws and paying to the Treasurer tlie sum of one dollar. 

II. 

All who are elegible to membership m this Society, the wives ot members 
thereof and such persons as may be elected thereto at the time of and in the 
manner ot electing otHcers of the Association, shall be honorary members of 
this Society, and shall be entitled to meet with and participate in all Reunions 
of the Society, but they shall have no vote at any election held by the Society, 
and shall not be subject to dues or assessments. 

III. 

All elections of officers, honorary members and amendments to Articles 
of Incorporation and Hy-Laws shall be by ballot. The person having the 
highest number of votes for any office at any election shall be declared elected. 

IV. 

All meetings and reunions of the Society shall be held at Manchester, 
Delaware County, Iowa, unlsss otherwise ordered by the Board of Directors. 

V. 

The Oflficers and Directors of the Society shall constitute a Board of 
Directors of the Society, and shall have charge and control of the business 
and affairs of the Society and shall have and exercise such powers as may be 
proper and necessary to carry out the objects of the organization, but they 
shall not levy assessments upon the members of the Society exceeding the 
sum of one dollar per year, and no member whose assessments are in arrear 
shall be entitled to vote at any election, or upon any questions. 

VI. 

The duties of the officers of this society shall be as follows : The Presi- 
dent shall preside at all meetings of the society and shall also be the presi- 
dent of the Board of Directors. The Vice-President shall in the absence of 
the President perform the duties of that office. The Secretary shall likewise 
be the secretary of the Board of Directors. He shall keep a record of all pro- 
ceedings ot the society, and of the|Board of Directors. He shall be the cus- 
todian of all books, papers and correspondence of the Society, and under the 
direction of the Board of Directors shall cause the proper rosters and records 
provided lor by the Articles ot Incorporation to be properly made and kept 
and shall receive therefor such compensation as the Board of Directors may 
deem just and proper. The Treasurer shall safely keep all funds coming into 
his hands by virtue of his office and pay out the same only upon oiders drawn 
on him by order of the Board of Directors and signed by the piesiding officer 
thereof and the Secretary. The Directors shall be elected from ditiferent com- 
panies of the regiment and shall with the officers of the Society constitute of 



lO 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



the Board of Directors of the corporation a majority of whom shall be a quo- 
rum to transact the business of the Society. 

VII. 

The officers of the Society elected at the reunion ol said regiment in 1884 
shall hold their offices until their successors shall have been elected and enter 
upon the discharge of their duties. An election of officers shall be held at 
every reunion of the Society, and vacancies occurring by deatii or otherwise 
shall be filled by the Board of Directors. 

VIII. 

At the reunion in 1884 the members of each company shall organize by 
electing a president, a secretary and a committee of three members who shall 
as far practicable procure and transmit to the secretary of the Society the 
necessary facts and dates to enable him to make up the record of the company 
as required by the By-Laws and Articles of Incorporation of the Society. 



W. A. Hamlin, company C 

J. C. Kiihns, '• H 

P. W. Moine. " C 

Chas. I. Martin, " C 

J. K. Simpson, " Q 

A. J. Rodgers. " "B"' 

W. N. Mann, " F 

F. Humphrey, chaplain. 

W. H Trowbridge, omp'y D 
E. O. Kelsey, company C 

J. W. Ward, " H 

S. R. Burch, adjutant. 

Henry Steen, company G 

Geo. Kint, " G 

1. B. S. iPted, " "B" 

Joseph Franks, " H 

J. C. Jones, company E 

D. Craighton, •' E 

J. B. Morgan, " K 
N. J. Davis, " < ' 

H. S. Briggs, " H 

G. A. Kauge, " G 
Johr, Elwell, company E 
John B. Thompson, com'y G 
H. J. F. Small, comp'y F 
Anthonv J. Biller, comply E 
W. L. Henderson, " "C" 
V. W. Moreiand, " U 
Hart Spears, company C 
H. M. I'leston, " F 
C. F. Merriam, " K 
A. J. Millett, " D 
Sam J. Lewis, " D 
Jas. Evans, " H 
H. U. Andrews, " "B' 
.1. F Zediker, " ' 1' 
G. E. Comstock, " "C' 



Joseph Soper, company 

J. W. Gift, 

S. Kemp, company 

Geo. Teskey, company 

P. R. Ketchum, 

A. E. West, 

G. H. Latimer, •' 

Mrs V. Lnnkins, com'ny 

J. W. Rich, company 

J A. Van Anda, comp'y 

U. B. McCall, company 

S. Kaltenbach, ■' 

V. Dubois, " 

Geo. H. Morisey, '* 

K. r. (Jl.irksnn, 

Mrs. R. P Clarkson, Co. 

Johi\ B. K. nt. (^'omp tiiy 

^. G. Knee. Lient. Colon*'". 

S. R. Kdtriiigton, Lieut. Co 

Jamef F. Lee, company " 

R. Z. Latimer, 

Mrs. W. .^. Morse, comp'y 

L M. Ay ITS, company 

W. W. Whiteiiack, comp'y 

Geo. W. \\ ooldridgc, •' 

Edwin Carell, company 

D. O. Aaker, 

A E. Anderson. " 

A. B. Perry, 

James Biirr. assistant siir; 

'l\ C. Nelson, company 

Joseph S. t<irlon, '" 

H. L. We den, 

Geo. L. Durno. " 

George H. i onb, " 

J. W. Ballinger, " 



D 


W. A. Nelson, company 


F 


F 


G. W. Kirkland, 


G 


A 


D. W. Reed. 


C 


'1" 


James Stewart, company 


C 


C 


M. E Madcr, " 


G 


A 


A. T. Garner, " 


H 


C 


T. McGowan, " 


F 


B 


H. C. Merriam, " 


K 


E ' 


P. J. Morehouse, " 


li 


H 


B. E. Eberhart, 


E 


C 


John S. Ray, " 


I 


F 


M. B. Goodenow, comp'y 


I 


D 


J. S. Margretz, 


B 


H 


C. V. Surfus, company 


E 


A 


D. Conley, 


D 


A 


B. I'. Zuver, 


D 


C 


P. R. Woods, 


C 




F. M.llamblin, " 


H 


1. 


J. A. Light, company 


H 


'P" 


J. Shorler, 


H 


C 


Hiram Knster, " 


F 


I'' 


John Steen, " 


G 


D 


John J. Eaton, company 


F 


1> 


I. L. Jordan, " 


C 


F 


0. P. Rockswold, " 


G 


F 


R. W Tirrill. 


F 


G 


Edwin A. Buttolph,Co. 


D 


(.i 


John F. Lee, company 


F 


E 


S. GifiEord, 


C 


geon 


Abner Dunham, co^Jip'y 


F 


F 


S. M. French, 


F 


F 


H. J. Graiinis. " 


C 


K 


Allen M. Blanchard, Co. 


D 


G 


Eli King, company 


T> 


A 


Henry M. Bailey, comp'y 


D 


C 


J. U. Stibbs, 





The Secretary then read the following letter from Col. J. J. 
Woods: 

Montana, Soliette Co., Kansas, May 16, 1884. 

Dear Dunham: — Amid the hurried duties of an active life, (for one of my 
age, (61) the thought just occurred to me that if I kept my promise, to wit: 
that if I did not attend the reunion of our old beloved 12th, you should re- 
ceive a letter from me before that event, I must write before mail time. 
Hence without taking time to give elegance of form to my sentences, I hasten 
to say that I exceedingly regret that private business at home, the distance to 
Manchester and the expense of the trip, combine to prevent my attendance at 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 1 1 

the reunion. Say to my comrades (and the people of Manchester) that I re- 
member, with gratitude the kmdness I received from them at our last reunion, 
that I would be glad to meet them again face to face, press their friendly hands 
and look into their loving eyes, recount with them the scenes and incidents 
when our hearts were cemented together in the camp, the march and the 
fiery ordeal of battle, and with devotion to the great principles of liberty drop 
a silent tear together in remembrance of those of our brave comrades, who 
laid down their precious lives a holy sacrifice upon the altar of their country. 
And then probably many who were not at the last reunion will be at this one. 
O how I would like to greet them. By why attempt to express my feeling in 
words. "The heart feels most when the lips move not." 

1 will hurridly close by saying, il life, health and strength permit, I will 
inake strenuous efforts to be with you at your next reunion. 

Yours Fraternally, 

J. J. Woods. 
P. S. — I want to tell you that I had the pleasure of meeting Gen. Pren- 
tiss recently and hearing him deliver his fine address on the battle otShiloh. 

Major D. W. Reed being called for, made some remarks concern- 
ing the proposed history of the 12th Regiment. He said what was 
greatly to be desired was a complete list of all the men whose 
names had ever appeared on the muster roll of the regiment. He 
said such a list was in the office of the Adjutant General at Wash- 
ington, and that it was possible to obtain a copy of it, as he had 
been informed. He had in his possession much material for that 
history, but, though he had addressed letters to every commission- 
ed officer of the regiment, requesting some account of his personal 
service, he had been unable to get a response from a single one of 
them. He hoped some member of each company would prepare 
an account of the service of the company, and send it to the com- 
mittee on the regimental history. This was the only way in which 
anything like a trustworthy history of the regiment could be 
written. He briefly reviewed the history of the regiment at Shi- 
loh, and successfully defended it from the charge, so often made, of 
having been captured early in the day on that memorable 6th of 
April, 1862. 

After which a very interesting letter from Capt. T. B. Edging- 
ton of Memphis, Tenn., was read, followed by letters from Capt. 
Robt. Williams of Co. E., in which he gave a graphic account of 
the part taken by the 12th Iowa at Shiloh and Topelo. 

Then followed letters from a large number of the absent com- 
rades in which they expressed their sorrow at their inability to at- 



12 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

tend, and sent love and kind remembrance to all who were present. 
Amongst these letters we note that of Capt. H. J. Playter, Adj't. 
Duncan, J. V. G. Price, Isaac Watkins, W. B. Kieth, J. V. Crane, 
Geo. Nauman, C. M. Runkle, H. W. Ross, R. E. Hamlin, R. L. 
Johnson, E. King, A. A. Stewart, R. C. Cowell, W. L. Winsor, J. 
M. Tarpening, Isaac Woodmansia, Frank Renchin, Sam'l West, 
Asst. Surg. Underwood, Lt. J. D. Cole, Thos. Barr, Harman 
Grass, H. W. Bailey, T. G. Clark, A. J. Millett, Surg. Finley, Capt. 
Hunter, Capt. Switzer, Maj, Vanduzee, C. A. Coon, Van R. 
Dunn, A. H. Graves, G. A. Houge, Lawrence Lott, Cruay Clark, 
J. L. Mattocks, H. F. Coon, J. P. Strong, F. J. Crowhurst, H. C. 
Winterstine, Oliver Sharp, W. P. Haywood, A. M. Blanchard, W. 
B. Bort, A. L. Palmer, C. C. Stribling. 

A letter from Gen'l. John A. McArthur, who commanded our 
division in 1864 and 65, was read, in which he expressed his re- 
gard for the boys and wished them a glorious good time. Gen- 
eral J. M. Tuttle, who commanded our division in 1863, sent us 
the following: 

Des Moines, May 26, 1884. 
G. E. Comstock, Esq., Manchester, Iowa. 

Dear Sir: — I returned home from tlie east, last Saturday, to find your in- 
vitation and other correspondence about your 12th Iowa reunion. I would 
have surely been there, had I known just when it was to have come off, and 
regret exceedingly that I was not there; for I hear that you had an e.\cellent 
time of it. Yours Truly, 

J. M. Tuttle. 

Here is another letter, written to E.J. Congar, Esq., by one who 
was there, Capt. J. E.Simpson of Dubuque, which will show how 
the reunion is regarded by those who were present: 

Dubuque, May 24, 1884. 
What a good time we had at Manchester. How kind everyone was to us. 
God bless them all. To the 12th Iowa, the 6th and 7th of April, 1880, and the 
2ist and 22nd of May, 1884, are bright, green spots, ever to be kept in memory, 
until the last survivor is under the sod. "Three cheers for tlie good, kind 
people of Manchester." Very Truly Your-;, 

J. E. Simpson. 

Many other letters were read, that were retained by the comrades, 
who presented them; hence the names of the writers cannot be 
given. The committee on publication regret that a lack of space 
prevents the publication in full of all letters that were received as the 
reading of them proved one of the most interesting and enjoyable 
features of the occasion- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 1 3 

Col. Stibbs said it was unusual to read letters from persons who 
were here, but he wanted to read a few lines from a letter he re- 
ceived from comrade S. M. French, who came 130 miles on toot 
through the mountains of Colorado, 65 of them on snow shoes, to 
be here at this reunion. The audience insisted on bringing Mr. 
French to the front, when they gave him three cheers that threat- 
ened to raise the roof of! the building. 

Everybody then joined in singing "John Brown," and everybody 
did it with a will. 

The following committees were then appointed : 

Finafice.—]. W. Gift, Thos. J. Lewis, Lt. H. J. Small, Dr. Jas. Barr. 
Resolutions. — Harvey Smith, R. P Clarkson, D. B. Henderson. 

John Steen, Wahoo, Nebraska, was elected Treasurer, ^I'o tern., 
and after singing, and the announcement that there would be ;i 
dress parade at five o'clock, the session was closed. 

DRESS PARADE. 

This was a pleasing feature of the program. Col. Jack Stibbs 
was attired in the regimentals he wore when he was mustered out 
of the army. Since which time he had grown corpulent and the 
coat had grown too small, but he obviated the difficulty by the aid 
of strings attached to the buttons. The pants, too, fit closely ; in 
fact the tout ensemble of hns attire was somewhat ludicrous, but 
amusing to all. After the manoeuvres had been gone through with 
in a very creditable manner. Adjutant Burch read the following: 



Headquarters 12th Iowa Infantry, Manchester, Iowa, May 21. General 
order 76. To the surviving members of the 12th Iowa: — This being the first 
dress parade iield by our regiment for nearly twenty years, I take pleasure in 
congratulating you on the soldierly appearance presented by you on this 
occasion. When our last dress parade was held we had just finished a series 
of campaigns, extending over a period of more than four years, during which 
time we took an active part in suppressing the most formidable rebellion 
known in the history of the world. On returning to our homes at the close of 
the war we were gratified to find that our friends were satisfied with our 
achievements, and that all considered we had done our duly well, and to-day 
we are happy in knowing that the people of the great State of Iowa point with 
pride to the record of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry, as being second to that of no 
regiment ever sent from the State. For nearly two decades peace has reigned 
within our borders, and they who were our enemies in war are now our friends, 
acknowledging to the world that the cause lor which we fought was just and 
right, and that we lairly gained the right to be styled their conquerors. 



J A SECOND REUNION OF THE 



Since the war closed the surviving members of our organization, have as 
a whole acquitted themselves creditably in the great battle ofhfe, and vve 
have here to-day a body of citizens of whom any community might well be 
nroud Time with his ruthless hand, has made sad inroads m our ranks, and 
nriny an anxious inquirer after some old friend is met to-day with the crush- 
in'-- renlv dead. We hope that there are many parades in store for our asso- 
ciation, but our own good sense tells us that the time is not far distant when 
the last remaining member of our regiment must answer to the call of lights 
out"" Then let us hope that when our reveille is beaten in the camp of the 
great Hereafter, that we may meet witii hearts true and loyal, as they were 
when we went f^orth to fight our country's battles. By order of 

J. H. Stibbs. 
Colonel Twelfth Iowa Infantry and Brevet Brigadier General. 

S. R. BuRCH, Adjutant. 

> 

Special order. Headquarters 12th Iowa Infantry, No. 91, Manchester 
Iowa Mav 21, 1884, Comrades: Nearly twenty years have elapsed since vve 
were 'in active servive- The statute of limitation serves as a bar to punishment 
for minor offenses committed during the war and our friends have generously 
offered us a free pardon for our youthful indiscretions, therefore I wisli to ad- 
monish you that it is no longer necessary for the survivors of the regiment to 
deny any acts committed by them in service. 

Ser<reant R. P. Clarkson of Company A should no longer deny that he is 
the idemical person who commanded the regiment's foragers, and tnat he did 
more stealing of something to eat than any man m the army. 

Private Dennis Conley of Company D, should no longer hesitate to tell 
from whom it was he took the sow belly with which to cook his veal on the 
occasion when he and three others ate a whole calf in a single night. 

Private Tom McGowan of Company F, should frankly admit that it was 
he who gathered in Mrs. Malchevey's yellow-legged chickens on thr- night of 
our arrival at Cape Girardeau in the fall of 1864. 

Private Geo. Annis, of Company F, should cease to denounce as false the 
story that after he lost his voice in the service, he on one occasion actually 
took a mule by the ear and whispered profane words into it, hoping tliereby to 
make it go faster. 

Major Tohn W. Rowan, of Company D, and Private Hart Speers, of Com- 
pany C are admonished to let upon their stories about big mules in the South, 
as our people are too well educated to be longer gulled with their stories about 
having driven mules in the army that were twelve feet high and weighed over 
3,000 pounds. 

Chaplain Humphrey is reminded of the fact that we can if necessary pro- 
duce fifty witnesses who will swear that his horse did jump eighteen feet high 
' and kick himself on the belly with all four feet at the same lime, on the occa- 
sion of his being beset with yellow jackets in the Arkansaw Swamp, ^nd it is 
folly to attempt to conceal the fact longer. 

Or. Master Morisey is hereby publicly warned that unless he ceases to 
deny having been present at the Major's quarters on a certain occasion when 
seven kegs of beer were ordered for the use of eleven persons, tha» the luff 
particulars of that remarkable meeting will be published. 

Other admonitions of a character similar to the foregoing, will be. officially 
promulgated unless there is a more general disposition manifested by the sur- 
vivors to state correctly their experiences in service. 

We earnestly trust that tliis order may have a salutary effect, and even 
hope that it may be the means of wringing a confession from the unregener- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. IMFANTRY, 



15 



ate wretch who stole the Colonel's blankets in the evening of December 25th, 
1864, thereby compelling him to sleep with the cook, whose name was Nicho- 
las Johnson. We have taken pains to give the cook's name in full, in order 
that no false impressions may be created in the minds of those not fully con- 
versant with the facts. By order of J. H. Stibbs, 

Colonel 12th Iowa Infantry, Brevet Brigadier General. 
S. R. BuRCH, Adjutant. 

The recidin^ of the orders created considerable merriment. The 
veterans then broke ranks and were dismissed until even. 

EVENING SESSION. 

The evening session opened with a tableau, representing the 
"Goddess of L,iberty," Mrs. W. H. Goodell making an imposing 
goddess. Between the three scenes of the tableau Mrs. W. C. 
Wilson sang, "The Star Spangled Banner" in her usual admirable 
and finished style. The effect of the whole was verv pleasing and 
effective. 

Pres. Knee then introduced Dr. J. T. Abbott, Mayor of Man- 
chester, who said: 

Mr. President, Ladies and Gentlemen: 

It strikes me that this matter is somewhat mixed up, that I should 
be asked to welcome to our town the 12th Iowa after they iiave been here in 
full possession of our town and hearts twenty-four hours. But, to carry out 
the program. It gives me pleasure to welcome the 12th Iowa to Manchester. 
Those who arrived yesterday, this morning and this noon saw the signs of 
that welcome on almost every post and lianging from every window, and 
beaming from the face of every individual. Welcome! It was a pleasuie to 
see comrades clasp each other by the hand, see the silent tear trickle down 
the cheek, hear the hearty greeting. There is a fraternal feeling amongst com- 
rades, and it is no wonder after the associations of the past. 

"A fellow feeling makes us wondrous kind." 

There are, it seems to me, feelings among individuals as they come togeth- 
er at this hour such as they would e.xperience under no other circumstances. 

I noticed at the train this morning, a soldier, who, as he stepped on the 
platform said, "Where is our old major; I want to see our old major," and as 

he discovered him, he said, "By there he is." His language perhaps was 

more expressive than elegant. Tears trickled down his cheek as he met his 
old comrade, and clasped him by the hand. 

In behalf of the citizens of Manchester, I welcome you to our hospitality. 
Some of you were here four years ago, and today. There are manj more to- 
getlier now. They p opose, or at least I i)ropose, you shall be so well enter- 
tained upon the present occasion, you will want to come again. Again, we 
welcome you, 12th Iowa, to the hospitalities ol Manchester. 

This was greeted with the heartiest applause, which upon Col. 
Henderson rising to respond, was renewed and when permitted to 
speak, he said: 



1 6 SKCOND REUNI(3N OF THE 



COL. HENDERSON'S ADDRESS. 

Are you responding to tliis toast or am I ? (Applause.) 
The first thins; tiiat strikes my mind, Mr. Mayor, is that Manchester lias 
chosen an excellent executive head, and that he has the good sense to see the 
apparent absurdity of welcoming the 12th Iowa to Manchester at this late 
hour. (Applause) Why the old 12th has been in the possession of the hearts 
and homes of Manchester during the entire day. (Applause.) But you were 
a|5pointed to welcome us, and you had to do it even after we had the town 
captured, and right royally have you extended your generous welcome. Now 
they ask me to act as reS|)ondent. Dunham and Comstock got you and me 
into this dilticully. Dunham is such a worker himself that he makes every- 
body else work, and Comstock is so full of music that he didn't know any 
better. 

Welcome to us! Yes, we have liatl a true, genuine, hearty, ringing wel- 
come! Welcome was on the faces that greeted us, in the voices tliat siKnitetl 
to us, in tile hands that graspeii ours. Tlie floating flags, tiie generous ban- 
ners, the open tloors and open hearts all hade us a joyous welcome. 

Beautiful girls have been hanging upon our breasts, fastening the true blue 
with words of welcome. (The only troul)ie is they ought to have taken more 
time for that pleasant work. (Applause.) 

Yes Mr. Mayor, we have been made welcome before you or I could say 
anytiiing. Welcome! Is it not a sacred word? Don't it warm the heart of 
the old soldier when welcome means welcome as it has this day? 

Welcome! Four years ago, comrades, we knew that. Their hearts and 
their doors were thrown open. Their tables were here, yea, more than that, 
their tears were the only jewels we wore. Manchester — Welcome! Always 
sweet, tender,— and why? Because the citizens of Manchester are backed by 
our comrades, who know how to give and take a welcome. Keep on! Keep 
right on! Take and pile it up! Welcome! With all our hearts. I apoligize 
for the remarks Mr. Mayor; but you gave me the text, and as I said, 1 cannot 
help preaching. I will retire now for some one else to follow. 

Col. Jack Stihbs intfoduced Col. W. R. Marshall of the 7th 
Minnesota Infantry by saying: 

I have been accorded the privilege of introducing tonight, Gen'l Wm. R. 
Marshall of Minnesota, who after Col. Hill was killed in 1864, commanded our 
brigade. Those of you who were present at Nashville, will never forget Gen- 
eral Marshall, as he appeared while leading our brigade in the charge of the 
second day, and how as he dashed to the front through our ranks, he called 
to our regiment to follow him. He is to tell us sometiiing of what he saw at 
Tupelo, and I am sure that no one, not a member of our regiment, could do 
it better. 

You remember that on the morning of the 14th of July, 1S64. our regiment, 
together with three companies of the 7th Minnesota, were assigned a position, 
which proved to be the most exposed of any along the line. The remaining 
seven companies of the 7th Minnesota, under General Marshall, were placed 
in our rear to act as a support in case the rebel charge proved to be too heavy 
for us tci^vithstand, but when the fight opened, I found on looking round, that 
General Marshall had come to the front to see for himself the efiect of the 
charge. When our muskets had become foul from much firing, he and his 
men took our places for a time in front and throughout the fight he was in a 
position to see our every movement, therefore he is well fitted to tell of the 
part we took in that battle. In writing to the General, asking him to meet 
with us on this occasion I said to him, that I knew of no one outside our regi- 
ment whom the boys would be more pleased to see than himself, and I am 
sure you will all endorse this statement. I now propose three ciieers for our 
old Brigade Commander, General Marshall. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. I^ 

Three cheers were given with a will after which General Mar- 
shall said: 

Ladies atid Gentlemen, Veterans of the Tivelfth: 

I feel very grateful to Colonel Stibbs for tlie very (lattering words with 
which he has introduced me. To many of you I do not feel a stranger. Of 
the Veterans of the 12th I can say upon many a weary march and hard fought 
battle field I have been with them, and they with me. I esteem it one of the 
honors that I have been favored with the command of men as brave, gallant, 
and truly soldierly. It would have been no common occasion that would call 
me from my home to leave cares that every man has. Nothing short of this, 
to meet old comrades whom I met amid the dire trials of war. I feel it an 
honor to have the opportunity of speaking to the veterans of the 12th and the 
patriotic citizens who have given them so royal a welcome. It reminds me of 
the uprising of the people at the first call of patriotism when the old and 
young, women and all, with one grand patriotic impulse prepared these now 
grown grey veterans for that service in which they did such distinguished 
work for the cause of liberty. 

I feel as though this were no occasion for an elaborate and extended his- 
torical sketch. I hardly feel as though I ought to detain you with a narrative 
of that battle. It was not so important, but it was one of the hardest fought 
battles of the war. I have met many who testify that in all the battles of the 
war they had not seen a worse. 

Forrest and Chalmers and other confederate commanders, who had com- 
mand of their forces in Tennessee, had been remarkably successful in their 
inroads over that union state. General Sturgis in the month of June, had been 
repulsed disastrously at Guntown. Gen. Forrest had defeated Gen. Sturgis 
with 4,000 men. Sturgis superior forces did not avail from his lack of knowl- 
edge on that occasion. The Red River expedition forces were on their way 
up the Tennessee. Gen. Sherman was camping at Chattanooga. After the 
disaster to Sturgis, the army having been to some extent reorganized, the 12th 
being in the 16th corps, reinforcements were added to retrieve the disaster to 
the main army under Sturgis. We marched by way of Ripley and Pontotoc. 
Our march would have lead us southeast to Okolona. Halting one day at 
Pontotoc and finding the rebels strongly intrenched our march was changed 
in the direction of Tupelo. On the 13th we took up our march toward the 
railroad at Tupelo. During the day we were attacked on the flank; the I2th 
were there and repulsed the rebels, inflicting a severe punishment. When 
some two or three miles from Tupelo we were attacked very heavily, and re- 
pulsed the enemy after a short figiit. Gen. Lee had at hand a very formidable 
army. They thought they had before them an easy victory. They were well 
informed on every movement of the union army. Our command was about 
equal — had some 12,000 men. 

They assaulted us on the morning of the 14th. The 12th under command 
of Colonel Stibbs, held the key to our position upon that field. It was as- 
saulted most terribly and charge after charge made by the rebel army. It 
was most g:allantly and bravely repulsed. The 12th bore the most deadly 
assault unflinchingly. I need not detain you to tell you much. Gen. Smith 
came to Col. Stibbs and said, he supposed he knew they were going to have 
heavy work, and he added "Don't you let them break that part of the line." 
He saw it was coming — that it would be disastrous to have the line broken. 
That was now the center of a horseshoe. Forrest and other confederate 
leaders were in this battle and they meant to accept no such result as failure. 
Men never fought with more determination than they did there. I talked with 
soldiers who had been in seventeen battles, and never saw harder fighting 
than there. I afterwards met one of Forrest's corps who was wounded and 
lost a leg, and he told me that in all Forrest's experience (he was wounded the 
only time during the war) he never was so severely repulsed as there. The 



1 8 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



number lost in the 12th was about in proportion to the number en- 
gaged in the battle. The 7th Minnesota lost more, but our numbers were 
larger in the 7th than in the 12th. We were in the Indian outbreak of 1862. 
Our experience was considerable but we liad not seen much fighting. Our 
regiment was a large one. While the 12th which was engaged at Shiloh, 
Nashville, Vicksburg. Spanish P'ort, in the Red River campaign, and other 
places was much depleted, it probably never was engaged in any battle in 
which it bore a more honorable part or held a more important position, or 
suffered a greater loss in proportion to the men engaged, than in this. No 
battle is more worthily or lionorably inscribed than the battle of Tupelo. In 
connection with this I may mention the little grey horse 1 rode at Spanish 
Fort and Tupelo, and from which I was wounded,— that old horse is still living 
on my farm in Minnesota, and I would have been glad to have brought him 
here to-day. I apprehend there are few of the old horses living to-day. I 
express again veterans of the 12th my appreciation of the honor of being in- 
vited to this reunion. I hope you will have many more such happy reunions 
spared to you yet. 

Applause testified the pleasure experienced from General Mar- 
shall's address. 

Colonel Stibbs preliminary to reciting the roll call then said: 

I am called on to recite a little poem which is designed especially for the 
benefit of the old soldiers. It may be old to many of you, but I am sure you 
will all agree that you never heard anything which served to bring more 
vividly before your minds, the recollections of a night in camp after a hard 
days' fight than does this little story of the "Roll Call." 

In order that you may appreciate it fully, I want you to go back with me 
twenty years to one of the little valleys in '.the South, where we bivouacked 
for the night after a battle, and I can think of none more appropriate than Old 
Town Creek, where we camped on the evening of July 15th, 1864. What a 
beautiful place it was. Across on the further side was the creek, which we 
always expected to find near camp. This side of it in the meadow our trains 
were parked and here in the timber we spread our blankets for the night. 
None of you will ever forget the funeral we had that evening. One of Co. 
B's men, August Leue, was shot during the forenoon, and supposing his 
wound was not a dangerous one, we tried to bring him away with us, but the 
poor fellow died in the ambulance during the afternoon. On reaching camp, a 
grave was prepared at the foot of a great oak tree which stood at the road- 
side, and just as the last rays of the setting sun came glancing up the valley, 
word was sent along the line and we gathered promiscuously at the grave. 
There was but little form or ceremony about the afitair. Only a few words and 
a short prayer from the chaplain and then the brave fellow was wrapped in 
his blanket and laid away. The grave was marked by a rough board taken 
from a cracker box and we left it as one more landmark to show the course of 
the Twelfth Iowa. 

Imagine yourselves in that camp now. The busy orderly has had no time 
during the day to call his roll, and now as the shades of night are gathering 
about us, he takes advantage of the first opportunity offered to ascertain the 
fate of those who went with him into the morning's fight- All recognize and 
respond promptly to his call as it is heard down the line, "Attention ! Co. 'D,' 
fall in for roll-call." 

You all remember the greasy old roll book which was always carried in 
his breast pocket and in which each man's war history was recorded, and now 
to make the picture complete, we will suppose that a corporal stands by his 
side holding the stump of a tallow candle and he calls the roll : 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. I9 

''THE ROLL call:' 

BY N. G SHEPHERD. 

"Corporal Green !" the Orderly cried ; 
"Here !" was the answer, loud and clear, 
From the lips of the soldier who stood near — 

And "Here !" was the word the next replied. 

"Cyrus Drew !" — then a silence fell — 

This time no answer followed the call ; 

Only his rear man had seen him fall. 
Killed or wounded, he could not tell. 

There they stood in the failing light, 

These men of battle, with grave,"dark looks, 

As plain to be read as open books. 
While slowly gathered the shades of night. 

The fern on the hillside was splashed with blood. 
And down in the corn where the poppies grew 
Were redder stains than the poppies knew ; 

And crimson-dyed was the river's flood. 

For the foe had crossed from the other side 

That day, in the face of a murderous fire 

That swept them down in its terrible ire ; 
And their life-blood went to color the tide. 

'•Herbert Kline !" At the call there came 

Two stalwart soldiers into the line. 

Bearing between them this Herbert Kline, 
Wounded and bleeding, to answer his name. 

"Ezra Kerr !" — and a voice answered, "Here !" 
"Hiram Kerr !" — but no man replied, 
They were brothers, these two ; the sad winds sighed. 

And a shudder crept through the cornfield near. 

"Ephriam Deane !"' — then a soldier spoke : 
''Dean carried our regiment's colors," he said ; 
"Where our Ensign was shot, I left him dead. 

Just after the enemy wavered and broke. 

"Close to the roadside his body lies ; 

I paused a moment and gave him drink ; 

He murmured his mother's name, I think, 
And death came with it and closed his eyes." 

'Twas a victory ; yes, but it cost us dear^ 
For that company's roll, when called at night, 
Of a hundred men who went into the fight. 

Numbered but twenty that answered, "Here !" 

After a medley by the Eldora band, which stirred up the vete- 
rans greatly, Major Reed being called said: 

Comrades: 

You will remember many were desperately wounded, though living, and 
we were obliged to leave them on the field at Tupelo. Just before marching, 
the 12th received orders to make a detail of men to remain with the wounded 
and be taken prisoners. I called upon Serg. H.R. Andrews, Co- B, to remain with 
the detail, Henry Winterstein of Co. I, being among the number. They came 



20 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



begging: to be excused, asking me to call for volunteers. They didn't want to 
be detailed to do an act of charity. To be detailed to remain and fall into 
Forrest's hands was asking a good deal ot a soldier. They remained and en- 
tered upon the duty. 1 should like to have them tell us about it. 

Comrade H. R. Andrews being introduced, said: 

Comrades, Ladies and Gentlemen: 

This was a hard place to put a soldier. It was simply an act ot charity, 
and the idea that my oflicers thought it necessary to command me to do an 
act of charity touclied me to the (|uick. I asked the adjutant to call for volun- 
teers, if none offered then we would. The adjutant promised the record 
should show we volunteered. It was a hard trial, tlie men we had been fight- 
ing were the same that committed the massacre at Fort Pillow, and so shame- 
fully treated Sturgis' wounded, simply because they were fighting side by side 
with negro troops ; we had negro soldiers with us. Knowing the feeling of the 
rebels, it was like going to certain death to voluntarily fall into th.eir hands, 
but there were our comrades, bleeding, dying with none to care for them, and 
although we might only cool their tongues with a little water and lose our 
lives in the attempt, we said we would stay. 

To be prepared for any emergency, I went among the men of the regi- 
ment and asked contributions of confederate money. I soon had over |4,ooo. 
This was of great use to us. All our hospital supplies were stolen the first 
day, after this we had only what was bought with this money. I paid five 
dollars each for old sheets to make bandages, two dollars each for chickens to 
make broth, and other things in proportion. There were si.xty- three of our 
own, and about three hundred rebel wounded at the hospital, sixteen men had 
been left as nurses. I was elected ward master. About 5 p. m. of the rsth, 
the stragglers from the rebel army came around us, abused us, threatened us, 
and stole every thing they could find. Their army was going to Old Town 
Creek after this excitement was over. On looking about for my help Winter- 
stein and a man from the 35th Iowa whose son was among the wounded was 
all I had left, the rest had gone north. All that night we then were alone with 
nearly 400 wounded men, some of whom were dying every hour. About 9 
A. M. of the i6th, Forrest came to the hospital, and learning he had some 
prisoners in a building near, I asked him to let me have some of them to help. 
I got nine. We signed a parole not to try to escape from the hospital. A few 
days afterwards a rebel otificer came around to send the prisoners south, and 
wanted us. I showed him my detail and made oath. I had had a similar de- 
tail for each of the others but the stragglers had stolen them the first day- 
This satisfied him and he left us. 

We remained at Tupelo about three weeks, then moved the wounded to 
Mobile. The doctor in charge had neglected to get return transportation for 
us, when my detail again came in play to get us back into the department of 
northern Mississippi. At Meridian the officer in command would neither talk 
to us nor look at our papers, but hurried us on to Cahaba. There the rebel 
officer was more considerate. I told mj' story, showed my detail and again 
made oath that I had had the details of the other men, which were stolen from 
me at Tupelo, and we were soon released. Thus I succeeded in getting those 
nine regular prisoners released as nurses- I do not think that false oath is 
registered against me "up there," if it is, when I get there I shall scratch 
it out. 

Colonel Stibbs introduced Rev. F. Humphrey, Chaplain of the 
Twelfth Iowa, in these words: 

No more pleasant duty could have been assigned me, than that of intro- 
ducing to-night our Chaplain. Owing to the fact that Army Chaplains are 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 21 



looked on as non-combatants and because during our war there were certain 
ones who thought more of their personal comfort than of the wellfare of their 
men, they as a class, did not receive I think, the full measure of credit that 
was their due, but } believe I am safe in saying that no man of the 12th Iowa 
ever had cause to speak disparagingly of our Chaplains. 

We had first Brother Eberhart, who was famous for his war speeches, and 
we all loved him as a father. I had expected to meet him here to-day, but 
learned from his son Ben who is here, that he had been dead three years or 
more, though Ben says his spirit is certainly with us, and I verily believe that 
somewhere, from out the great world beyond the river the dear old face is 
looking down on us to-night, and enjoying with us the pleasures of this meet- 
ing. 

After Chaplam Eberhart«had been compelled to resign owing to ill health, 
there came to us the Rev Frederick Humphrey, who proved no unworthy 
successor of the one who had preceded him. He accepted as his first duty, 
the spiritual care of our men. Yet from the outset he recognized the fact that 
long prayers would not stop the flow of blood from a freshly severed artery, 
nor carry a canteen to the lips of a dying soldier, therefore when the long roll 
was beaten, he reported himself on the color line ready for work. When the 
bugles sounded the charge on the evening ot the first day's fight at Nashville, 
I saw him sittino: on his horse by the side of Col. Hill and I know that 
throughout that battle he was constantly with us, and we certainly could find 
no one more competent than he to tell "What I saw at Nashville." 



Rev. Humphrey spoke as follows: 

Mr. President, ajid Soldiers of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry: 

I thank Col. Stibbs for his cordial introduction and flattering mention of 
my services in the army ; and I thank you fellow soldiers, for your cheers and 
greeting on this occasion. 

In response to " What I saw at Nashville," I saw thrilling deeds, splendid 
battle lines, heroic charges and a great national victory ; but the best and 
noblest of all I saw men, brave men, men who for the fight had hearts of iron, 
arms of steel and wills to strike, who struck for country and humanity, struck 
Treason's army of 40,000 and made that marshalled phalanx stagger and reel 
under the blows of the deadly onslaught and who sent its legions broken, 
shattered and flying back to their "own place-" Twenty years have passed, 
and in this reunion of the 12th Iowa Infantry here to-night, I see again the 
faces of many of those patriot warriors dear to my heart, whom I then saw in 
the smoke and flame of battle, their locks now steel-mixed by hardship then 
endured, and some whitened by the frosts of twenty northern winters. Here 
is Color-Bearer Grannis who with Clark amidst hissing iron hail planted the 
stars and stripes in triumph on the enemy's forefront work the 15th, and on 
the last wall of his line the i6th of December, 1864. Here are the familiar 
features of Sergeant Major Burch and Major Reed, then Adjutant, and Col- 
Knee then acting Major, these officers ever in the thickest of the conflict in 
front; and here is Brevet Brigadier General John H. Stibbs, then Colonel of 
the 12th Iowa, Colonel and Regiment the "bravest of the brave," handling his 
regiment as the engineer handles his steam engine and charging the hostile 
lines like a thunderbolt ; and here too is our last brigade commander Ex-Gov- 
enor Marshall of the gallant 7th Minnesota who led the brigade to victory after 
the fall of the lamented Hill. Time fails to recount the names and deeds of 
all the heroes who fought at Nashville and on other fields of glory, many of 
whom are here to-night rejoicing in the joy of this happy reunion, their hearts 
aglow with patriotism in memory of common sufferings for the right, their 
manhood ennobled by self sacrifice for their country. God accepted that 
bloody sacrificial offering and now you are citizens of a reunited republic the 



22 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

freest and happiest of all history— a republic which your valor aided in rescuing 
from tyranny's bottomless abyss and in re-establishing on Civil Liberty's gran- 
ite rock of eternal right. 

Thanks to Lieut. Dunham and others for this reunion in beautiful Man- 
chester. How striking the contrast between the blue skies, green fields, bright 
suns and happy homes of Manchester in these verdal May days of 1884, and 
the Nashville clouds, fogs, rain, sleet, snow, ice, mud and desolation of those 
December days of 1864. That was the agony ot war, this is the bliss of peace. 
The contrast turns our eyes back to those dark days and battle fields of 1864. 
Canby is assaulting the outworks ofi Mobile, waiting for A. J. Smith and the 
i6th corps to come and help him capture the city. With 70,000 mvaders in 
those same December days, Sherman's eagles are feeding on the vitals of the 
confederacy, and swooping down on Savannah in distant Georgia. With 130,- 
000 fighters Grant's artillery is sounding the knell of the rebellion at Peters- 
burg and Richmond in Virginia. While these great armies of the republic are 
fighting on those separate and remote fields. Gen. John B. Hood with 55,000 
veterans crosses the Tennessee river near Florence, marches north to kindle 
anew the fires of treason in that state, and if possible to advance and capture 
the rich towns and cities and to invade the free states north of the Ohio. To 
meet this invasion Thomas assembles troops from every available source. 
Wood's 4th corps, two divisions of Schofield's 23rd corps, 5,000 of Sherman's 
troops under Steedman, Wilson's cavalry corps and the i6th corps of 12,000, 
under A. J. Smith having aided in the route of Price, is ordered from the bor- 
ders of Kansas to oppose Hood's threatened invasion. On the morning of 
the first of December as the ambulances were bringing into the city the 
wounded from the bloody field of Franklin, the i6th corps landed at Nash- 
ville. The same day Hood with 40,000 men pitched his camp on the outer 
heights of Nashville. And here I must say that it would afford me the highest 
pleasure to give an account of the movements and of the heroism of the different 
corps, divisions, brigades and regiments of both armies for they are full of 
valor and thrilling incidents, but this time and place limit me to a general ac- 
count with some details of our own regiment and brigade. 

Hood might attempt to enter Nashville on any one of nine turnpikes and 
three railways which radiated from the city between high bluffs out into the 
country. Across these roads, valleys and over tiie blutTs Thomas with 60,000 
men threw up earthworks extending from the Cumberland river above Nash- 
ville around the city to the river below the turn. On the outer circle of 
heights beyond the lines ot Thomas, Hood entrenched in choice military po- 
sitions admirably located to mow down assaulting columns. His position was 
formidable. The northern states were alarmed. The Washington authorities 
were anxious. They telegraphed Thomas to fight at once. Even Grant left 
his Virginia battle grounds and came to Washington with the purpose of 
going himself to Nashville. From the 8th to the 14th rain, sleet, snow and ice 
paralvzed military movements. Truly the country had cause for anxiety. For 
Hood had 40,000 fighting men and fourteen days in which to fortify and to 
make his army impregnable to any force that could be hurled against him. 
The victory that soon lollovved has caused the country to overlook the magni- 
tude of the peril at that time. Look at Hood's splendid position. With such 
commanding military heights, with those hills and natural bastions for the de- 
fence, support and protection of an army's lines and wings, I believe that 
there are men of the 12th Iowa here who could take 40,000 men, and those 
heights and so fortify them in fourteen days that they could hold them against 
the assault of three times 40,000. Hence the uncertainty of the issue of the 
then pending battle. Country and government had cause for alarm. But the 
generalship of Thomas the Von Moltke of the American armies, and the valor 
of the troops dispelled doubts and alarm by the victory of the 15th and i6th 
of December. 

On the 14th the temperature moderated and the ice melted. The morn- 
ing of the 15th dense fog fills the Cumberland valley, the air is electric with 
the approach and opening of a great battle. Near 9 o'clock the fog lifts, 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 23 



drifts away and reveals the hurrying and fierce prepar-ations for battle. Steed- 
man opens the fight on our left by a vigorous demonstration with artillery and 
musketry agamst Hood's right. A. J. Smith with the i6th corps, its right sup- 
ported and covered by Wilson's cavalry, makes the main attack on Hood.s 
rigiit and steadily bends it back to the east of Charlotte and Hardin Pikes. 
Wood's corps torm an unbroken line from Smith's left to Steedman's right. 
Schofield's corps forms m reserve in rear of Smith. To the east of Hardin 
Pike, McMillen's and Hubbard's brigades of McArthur's division with Hatch's 
cavalry assault and carry in heroic charges two strong forts and turn their 
guns on their morning friends. The third brigade of the same division, emu- 
lating its companions, prepares to storm the forts on Hillsbro Pike a half mile 
in advance. 

In giving details of our own men, I intend no disparagement of others 
equally brave. The third brigade forms in double lines of battle, the 12th 
Iowa and 7th Minnesota in the front line, the 35th Iowa and 33rd Missouri in 
the second line. "Forward" is the order by Col. Hill. Then the brigade 
moves in quick step for some distance, descends into a depression and rests, 
the men lying on their faces sheltered by a rising crest before them — shot and 
shell shriek and burst over them — up again and forward over the crest into 
another depression and rest again close to the bosom of mother earth ; mus- 
ketry and canister hiss and whistle their sharp notes close to their heads. 
Yonder on the crest of a hill sixty rods distant stands the fort. Col. Stibbs 
said to Adjutant Reed, "Tell the color-bearers to carry the colors straight to 
the centre of that fort." Then in the teeth of an iron tempest from musketry 
and artillery at close range the brigade swept like an avalanche across the inter- 
vening space and carried the fort by storm. In the moment of victory Col. Hill 
shot through the head, fell from his horse. The enemy hastily withdrawing 
his artillery to another fort across the Pike reopens on his lost fortress filling 
the air with clouds of shot, shell and fragments of stone. Col. Marshall and 
Adjutant Reed on the wings advancing to the assault soon captured the 
second fort with its guns, while Col. Stibbs, mounting a captured and har- 
nessed artillery horse reformed the brigade lines and sent notice of Col. Hill's 
death to Col. Marshall who as ranking officer then took command of the 
brigade and pressed forward after the retiring enemy till night put an end to 
the operations of the first day's fighting. Hood's whole line had been forced 
back — his right wing a distance ol five miles. Thomas had handled his army 
with consummate skill, had kept his lines united and supported and had put 
nearly every man into the fight. On the i6th Steedman's and Wood's troops 
formed Thomas' left, the cav^alry and Schofield his right and Smith his centre. 
Hood had now seen the error of his extended lines and from hard necessity 
he contracted them. He placed his wings in strong positions, his left on 
Overton's hill and his right on Shy's hill, fortified them and connected them 
by a strong line of entrenchments. 

The movement of Smith's i6th corps on the 15th from Harding Pike had 
been five miles southeast. To face Hood's centre lines the morning of the 
i6th, the i6th corps wheeled to the right. Adjutant Reed tells me that he 
afterwards learned from prisoners, that when the rebels saw the corps wheel- 
ing by brigades they said that it was the most beautiful military evolution on 
the battle field that they had seen during the war and that those were troops 
that they had not met before. 

McArthur's division of the i6th corps advanced till within musket range 
of Hood's central line, threw up slight breastworks and continued the fight. 
From that time till four in the afternoon there was a sharp constant fire of 
musketry and artillery. 

Steedman assaulted Hood's right on Overton's hill and was driven back. 
Schofield pressed Hood's left and Wilson's cavalry was gaining the rear of 
Shy's hill. The artillery redoubled its fire and shattered the entrenchments on 
the heights that protected Hood's left. Its thunder crash and roll I can never 
forget. At 4 o'clock Thomas ordered a general charge along his whole line. 



24 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

Then for a half hour the sharp, short, quick reports of musketry increases in 
frequency and in vohime — the volley swells louder and louder till it becomes 
one continuous, unbroken roar — tiie heavy, sublime roar of a mighty tempest. 
The brigades of McArthur's division advance en echelon. McMillon's up Shy's 
hill, Hubbard's over the level plain and Marshall's in double lines of battle, 
the 1 2th Iowa and 7th Minnesota in front down the descending ground in the 
face of a Louisiana battery of four twelve pound Napoleons, they carry the 
enemy's entire line and capture prisoners, artillery and small arms by thou- 
sands. The charge was magnificent, the victory was complete, the result was 
glorious. The invasion was ended. In its results at ^hat time while our large 
armies were fighting in Virginia and Georgia, the battle of Nashville and the 
destruction of Hood's army of invasion were momentous and decisive events 
in termmaling the war. The first invasion of the north was attempted by Lee 
in 1862 and defeated on slave soil at Antietam. A second attempt by Lee was 
made in 1863 and defeated on free soil at Gettysburg where near 200,000 men 
engaged in the deadly conflict. Again the invader was defeated and driven 
back south of the Potomac. 

A third attempt under Hood to invade the north was made in 1S64. The 
invading host hurled itself against a wall of fire at Franklin and Nashville and 
staggered and fell smitten and blasted and destroyed by the flammg swords ot 
Liberty's patriot hosts and by the lightnings of insulted Heaven. The invasion 
of the free north could not succeed because in His moral government of the uni- 
verse, God had no further use in this 19th century for an enlightened nation 
whose reason for existence is human slavery with its tr^in of wickedness. 
Perjury and wrong may conquer for a time, but moral truth and right have 
their origin, support and defence in the being of God, and in His time they will 
surely and certainly triumph, for the mightiest power in the universe is moral 
power. The triumph of the confederacy would have been a reversal of the 
moral order of God. God fought with us, because we fought for right. Gladly 
do we turn from the trials of that day to the joys of this reunion. And from 
this reunion we look forward in faith, hope and charity to the grand reunion 
under our High Captain in the Paradise of God where war shall be no more 
and peace and joy shall reign for ever. 

The "Red, White and Blue" was then sun^^ by Miss Carrie 
Tooi^ood, in a very agreeable style, the audience taking up the 
chorus with great animation. 

Col. Stibbs then presented to the audience. Sergeant Grannis, 
who carried the colors of the 12th all through the war and in eve- 
ry engagement. He had the old battle flag of the regiment on the 
stage, and the boys, as he stood with it on the platform, gathered 
about him and sang "The Battle Cry of Freedom" with a vim 
that would have scared a brigade of Johnnies. 

The "exercise" put down on the program as the "Grand Love 
Feast" followed, and was begun by Col. Jack Stibbs, who rend- 
ered a German version of "Barbara Frietchie," an humorous pro- 
duction that continued the wild uproar of enthusiasm. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 25 



BARB ARTE FRIETCHIE — NEW VERSION. 

Id was droo der streeds of Fredericksdown, 
Der red-hot zun he was shine him down, 

Bast der zaloons all filt mit bier, 
Der rebel vellers valked on dier ear. 

All day droo Fredericksdown so fast. 
Horses, und gvins, und zogers bast. 

Der rebel flag he shone him oud so bridt. 
As if, by Jinks, he got some ridt. 

Vere vas der Onion flag? Der zun 
He look him down not on a von. 

Up jumped dot olt Miss Frietchie den, 
Zo oldt by nine score year und ten. 

She grabbed up der oldt flag der men haul down, 
Und fasen id guick by iier nidtgown. 

Den she sot by der vindow ver all could see 
Dere vos non vot lofe dot flag so free. 

Purty soon come ridin' up Stonewall Jack, 
Sittin' from der mittle of his horse's back. 

Under him brow he squint him eyes ; 
Dot flag! dot make him great surprise. 

Halt! each veller make him sdill, 
Fire ? was echoed from hilt to hill. 

Id busted der sdrings from dot nidtgown, 
But Barbaric Frietchie, she was arount. 

She grabbed der flag again so guick, 

Und oud of der vindow her arms did sdick. 

"Obuse of you would dis olt bald head. 
But leave alone dot flag!" she said. 

Zo zoon, zo quick as Jack could do. 
He holler him out mit a face zo blue : 

"VVho bulls one hair out of dat bald head. 
Dies awful guick, go aheadt !" he said. 

Und all dot day, und all dot night. 
Till efery rebel vos out of site. 

Und leave behind him dot Fredericksdown, 
Dot flag he vas slhicken by dot nidtgown. 

Dame Barbaric Frietchie's vork is done, 
She don't forever got some fun. 

Bully for her! und drop a tear 

For dot old voman mitoud some fear. 



26 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



Col. Henderson then introduced Harvey Smith, of Waterloo, 
who gave a very interesting account of his recent visit, with the 
late excursion, to the battlefield of Shiloh in a speech of 45 min- 
utes, after which he called attention to the relics brought from the 
field, which consisted of several pieces of wood from the trees on 
the old battle ground, cannon balls and canister shot, old rusty 
bayonet, flint locks, fragments of shell, rebel bullet mould, etc, etc. 

After singing by the Glee Club, and the benediction by Chap- 
lain Humphrey, the meeting adjourned, 



The Following is the Roll of Members Present 



REGIIVIENTAL AND FIELD OFFICERS. 



James Barr. Assistant Surgcou, Algona, Iowa. 
W. R. Ma:shall, Col. 7th Minnesota, St. Paul. 

F. Humphrey, Chaplain, Fairmont, Minn. 

G. H. Morisey, Major, Manchester, Iowa. 



S. G. Knee, Lt. Col., Colesburg, Iowa. 
J. H Stibbs, Col. & B'vt Brig. Gen. Chicago. 
S. D. liroillbecls, Major, Denver, Colorado. 
J. L. Geddes, Brig. Commander, Vinton, la, 



COMPANY A. 



II. A. Cramer, Nevada, Iowa. 
J. H. Bowers, Eldora, Iowa. 
S. R. Edgington, Eldora, Iowa. 
S. Kemp, Alden, Iowa. 
G. A. Cobb, Eldora, Iowa. 
B. F. Ibach, " 



John Dowling, French Creek, Iowa. 
J. A. Decker. Lansing. Iowa. 
Geo. Ibach, Preston, Minnesota. 
I. B. S. Isted, Alilwaukee, Wis. 



W. W. Moore, Manchester, Iowa. 
R. P. Clarkson, Des Moines, Iowa. 
E. S. Sawin, Union, Iowa. 
A. E. Webb, Iowa Falls. Iowa. 
T. R. Bell, Iowa Falls, low.i. 



COMPANY B. 



A. J. Rogers. Waukon, Iowa. 
II. R. Andrews, West Union, Iowa. 
W. P. Winters, Bancroft, Iowa. 
Mrs. Fred Lankins, Chicago, 111. 



COMPANY C. 



S. C. Beck, Waverly, Iowa. 

James Stewart, West Union, Iowa. 

II. B. Clark, Melburn, Iowa. 

J. E. Kent, Oelwein, Iowa. 

W. A. Hamlin, Plymouth, Iowa. 

Samuel Conner, Maxwell, Iowa. 

J. W. Ba linger, Lacy, Iowa. 

S. Gifford, Auburn, Iowa. 

P. R. Woods, Payette, Iowa 

Hart Spears, Mill, 

D. W. Reed. Waukon, •' 

P. R. Ketchum, Windsor, Iowa. 

G. Hazlett, Allison, 

F. W. Moine, Strawberry Point, Iowa 

A. K. Ketchum, Clarion. " 

G H Latimer, Mill. 



G. W. Proctor, Laurens, Iowa. 
R. Z, Latimer, Fayette. Iowa. 

D. E. McCall, Calver, Kansas. 
R. F. Rogers, W;iucoma, Iowa. 

H. J. Grannis, Flag Bearer, Fayette, Iowa. 
Geo. E. Comstock, Manchester, Iowa. 

C. J. Martin, Tripoli, Iowa. 

E. A. Kelsey, " 

Geo. L Durno, Springville, Iowa. 

D. B. Henderson, Dubuque. " 
W. L. Henderson, LeRoy, Minn. 
J. L. Jordan, Bull City, Kansas. 

J. H. Cannichael, Volga City, Iowa. 
H. C. Curtis, LeMars, Iowa. 
G. II. Jakway, Lamont, "■ 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



27 



COMPANY D. 



Dennis Conley, Davenport, Iowa. 
W. A. Trobridge, Des Moines, Iowa. 
Francis Curran, Marion, Iowa. 
F. Dubois, Dennison, " 

Ilerman Elgin, Grafton, " 
W. Boingardner, Scranton, Iowa. 
B. P. Zuvcr, Adams, Neb 
Lyman M. Ayers, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 
S. R. Burch, Olatlie, Kansas. 



Thomas J. Lewis, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

J. W. Rowan, Vinton, Iowa. 

James Galliger, Creete, Neb. 

T. L. Prescolt, Chicago, III. 

E. B. Soper, Emmettsburg, Iowa. 

Wm. W. VVhitnack, Waterloo, Iowa. 

Edwin A. Buttolph, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 

J. II. Stibbs, Chicago, Illinois. 

J. N. Weaver, Algona, Iowa. 



COMPANY E. 



Wm. Hamilton, La Porte City, Iowa. 

E. Sawyer, " " 
B. E. hbcrhart, " " 
J. W. Rich, Vinton, Iowa. 

F. Large, La Porte City, Iowa. 
David Schrack, Oelwein, " 
David Craighton, Geneva. Iowa. 
A. W. Myers, Shell Rock, " 



C. V. Siirfus, Bristow, Iowa. 

J. S. Margretz, IlitesviUe, Iowa. 

J. C. Jones, Hampton, " 

A. J. Biller, Waterloo, 

A. B. Perry, Lester, Iowa, 

John Elwell, 03, Ex. Building, Chicago, 111. 

T. M. Early, Bristow, Iowa. 

Harvey Smith, Waterloo, Iowa. 



COMPANY F. 



W. H. Bucknam, Dubuque, Iowa. 

W. W. Maiin, Runnell.sbiirg, Nebriuska. 

C. Tliofn, Waverly, Iowa. 

W. A. Nel.son, Hazelton. Iowa. 

T. C. Nel.son, 

J. J Eaton, Edgewood, " 

James Tnnnble, Manchester, Iowa. 

H. W. Mackey, Maynard, " 

A. L. Manning. Duiilap, " 

H. J. T. Small. 452 Wood St., Chicago, 111. 

Geo. Kent, Oelwein, Iowa. 

G. W. Woolridge. Carthage, D. T. 

H. M. Preston, Ft. Dodge, Iowa. 

Samuel Kaltenbacli, Manclie.ster, Iowa 

Jo.shua Wldger, " 



Joseph S. (iirton. Hazelton, Iowa. 

W. H. (ioodoll, Manchester, " 

J. F. Lee, Clay Mills, Iowa. 

Ed. Correll, (ireeley, " 

J . W. Gift, I'eoria,"lll. 

John liremner, Yankton, D. T. 

Aimer Dunham, Manchester, Iowa. 

Hiram Kaster, " " 

R. W. Ten-ill, 

R. L. Weeden. Nugent, " 

S. M. French, St(>;unlH)at Springs, Colorado 

John F. Lee, Council (irove, Kansas. 

John Otis, Manchester. Iowa. 

Thomas McGowan, Independence, Iowa. 



COMPANY G. 



O. P. Rocksvold, Thoton, Iowa. 
G. W. Kirkland, Freeport, Iowa. 
J. E. Simpson, Dubuque, " 
A. E. Anderson. Calmar, " 
D. O. Aaker, Ridgeway, 
John Steen, Wahoo, Neb. 



M. K. Meader, Hesper, Iowa. 
J. B. Thompson, Spillville, Iowa. 
G. A. Hauge, Albert Lea, Minn. 
Henry Steen, Oakland, Nel>. 
Nelson J. Davis, Berrien Springs, Mich. 
Wari'en Wait, Nashua, Iowa. 
A. Carey, Castalia, Iowa. 



COMPANY H. 



J. Shorter, Shell Rock, Iowa. 
J. A. Light, Norfolk, Neb. 
A. T. Garner, Farley, Iowa. 
S. C. Fishel, Iowa Falls, Iowa. 
H. S. l?nggs, Marcus, " 

J. A. Van Anda, Fremont, Neb. 
J. B. Flenniken, Norfolk, " 
D. W. Moreland, Earlville, Iowa. 
James Evans, Dubu(iue, Iowa. 



Franklin M. Hamblin, Iowa Falls, Iowa. 

Edwjiid Winch, Arena, Wis. 

J. W. Ward, Buiiington, Iowa. 

Joseph Frank. Mamont, " 

J. C. Kuhns, Manning, " 

Alex. McConnell, Hopkinton, Iowa. 

K. W. Fishel, Greeley, Iowa. 

S. M. Jackson, Lincoln. Neb. 

S. B. Sloan, Greeley, Iowa. 



M. D. Nagle, Dubuque, Iowa. 
M. B. (lOodnum, Ord, Neb. 
J. S. Ray, Naponee, " 



COMPANY I. 



Geo. Teskey, El wood, Iowa. 
J. F. Zediker, Franklin, Neb. 



COMPANY K. 



Henry Waldroff, La Porte City, Iowa, 
Porter Willard. H(tpkiuton, Iowa. 
P. J. Morehouse, Masonville, Iowa. 
Sanmel Horn, Maynard, 
Ira D. Blanchard,"Edna, Minn. 



W. I). Morgan, Blooniington, Neb. 
H. C. Meiiiani, Hopkinton, Iowa. 
J. B. Morgan, Davenport, " 
N. H. Baldwin, Ade, Kansas. 
C. IC. Merriani, Hopkinton, Iowa. 



28 



SKCOND REUNION OF THE 



MEMBERS OF OTHER REGIMENTS. 



"K^^^w- ^. 1 



.1. A. Snyder, Co, I), 4:illi Wis. MiiiK'liesU'r. I;i 
J. M. (iariisDii. Co. 15, 2.'iil " " " 

C. (). Hunisoii, Co. K. .Slst 
J;i.s. Stewart, '\). C. 27tli Wi.s., 
H. H. Sisson, Co. K, 27tti " Delawaic, la 
W. S. Jones, Co. K,2il Wis. Cav. Manclicsler 
J. I). fM!,'u;s, Co. C, 4i!lli Wis. Inf. 
H. C. Kihiv, Co. C, 2211(1 " " WinUiro]) hi 
('. II. Jolinsoii.Co. 1), -nil Wis. Ca\. Del., la 
K. 15. lAim. Co. I), nth Wis. Inf. Maneliester 
P. A. rcl(!r.s<>n,Co. ll,27lli Wis. Inf. 
Win. Wasson, ;!i(l hui. r.atleiv, Delaware, la 
KuKene Hall, Co. F, !itli Iowa," Karlville, 
J;us. T. I'^owler, Co. (i, iilli Iowa, Creeley, '• 
Geo. liedlioad, Co. C, l.iili " I'ostvilie, la 
Anthony Swindle, (^o. I,41h " r.aiiy\ ille. " 
John .MalvcMi, ('o. II, nth Iowa, (ireeley, la. 
W. H. (iolder, Co. 15, Ktli la., Manchester' la 
L. D. IIoncis, Co. C, >' Wmthi-oii, la. 

Ja.s. Slnulle, Co. (!, 2nd la., Manchester, la 
K. M. Marvni, Co. II, :5lst la., 

J. C. 15utts, ] ^^Wal- (^'l^: 1 Dycrsville, la. 
H. C. Fo.x, Co. F, 4Gtli la., Manchester, " 
a. A. Odell, " " •' (Jreelev, Iowa. 
S. C. Hursh, Co. (i, Hth la., Cav. Waverly, la 
K. (1. Crawford, Co. L, Kth la., Cav. Hop'ton 
J. H. Kvaus, Co. 15, 4tli la. Cav., Uyersville. 
W. F. Delaney, Co. 15, 4th la., Cav.,' Hazel (! 
Chas. Delaney, '" " '• " 

Cyrus Stoner,' " " Earlville, la 

D. K. Fox, Co. K, 4th la., Cav., Manchester 
J. H. Peters, U. C.)l. 4th la. " 
15. F. Skinner, Co. C, 1st " " 
S. W. Trenohard, Co. G, 1st la. Cav. " 
G. H. Dubois, 

A. Miller, Co. L, 1st la. Cav. Manchester, la 
K. D. Smith, Co. G, 6th la. Cav. Forestville, 
A. 15. Durfey, " " " Edgewood. 

C. J. Bailey', Co. L, " " Manchester 

Chii-s. Sydovv, '" D, 27th Iowa, Couover, la 

I. S. Ilanna. " E, " " Nusent, la. 
A. D. Unbbell, Co. F, 27th la., Edgewood, la 
W. J. Millctt, Co.F, 27th la., Manehe.ster, la 
K. 15. Wilson, " " " 

C. O. Torrey, " " " " 
Kollin Lewis, " " " 

A. J. Hrown, " •' " " 

15. W. Kenvon, " " " Tower Hill, la 

F. D Smith, Co. C, 11th Vt. Masoiiville, la. 

A. H. lUake, Co. F, iith " Manchester, la 

Ilenry Stiles, Co. A, 2nd " Masoiiville, " 

S. A. Paige, Co. G, lOtli 

Win. Williams, Co. 15, 2!)tli Mass. Manchester 

S. E. Meserve, Co. K, Kith Mass., 

15. W. Jewell, Co. \<\ 1st. Mass., 

J. C. Hadley, Saiipers & Miners, 3rd Md., " 

II. P. Chapman, Co. P., Kith N. H. Mancli".st'r 

D. C. Meader, Co. 1). 6th Maine, Eldora, la 
Allen Meader, Co. E, 2Ctli '• 

C. W. Rollins. Co. A, 22(1 " Delaware, la 
Midnuil Dnffey, Co. A, 1st Nev. Cav. Nugent 
A.Knowles, Co.K, 7th Mo.Cav. Winthrop, la 



T. .1. Doane, Co. 1), 70 Ind.. Uoh Moines, la 

D. A. P.eiider, " A, 120 Ind , Manchester, " 
A. A. Ilaniliii. Co. A, it7lli Ind., 

J. P. Wilson, Co. A, liKi Pa., Manehesler, " 

L. Smith, Co. I, mil Pa., Cav., Forestville, 

Amos l.iglitfoot, Co.lC, 11th Pa., Cav. Man'str 

Henry Hunt, Co. E, Kjtli Mich., Manchester 

C. II. P.abcock, Co F. 4:id ()., Masoiiville, la 

A. <;. riiompson, Co. I), (ilst ()., Manchester 

(i. (). Vincent, Co. E. 1st ()., Hat. 

W. II. Ayers, Co. F, lu3d " Delaware 

John Diihois, Seig. Maj. 21.st la., Manchester 

P. S. Crosby, iU). H, 21.st Iowa, 

N. S. Preston, Delaware. 

E. S. Stone, Co. K. " " Delhi. 

C. Ilusted, CO. F, 21st Iowa, Manchester. 

J. F. Merry, " K, 

C. P. Dimton, Co. K, •' ■' 

Newton (ireen, Co. K, 21st la., Hazel Green 

('. Scott, Co. II, " Manchester. 

Daniel II. Gregg, Co. H, 51.st III. 

A. J.Collinge, Co. A, 3;»th 111., 

C. II. Oshoiii, Co. K, 4i;th 111.. Brush Creek 

Jose[ili Mitch, " F, I2tli " Manehe.ster, la 

W. S. Martin. " F. 54th " 

G. M. Hickok, " 1, 1st 111. Et. Art., " 

Arthur Sjiare, " 1, iiGth 111., 

.1. H. Boardman, Co. K, 28th 111. .F'orestville 

Luther Kicli. Co. E, r)2nd 111., Manchester 

J. L. Chapel, " B, 74th " 

(i. A. Day, Col. iilst HI., Manehe.ster, Iowa 

C. H. Westbrook, Co. B, 8th 111. Cav. 

A. C. Carter, Co. E, l4Gth 111. Inf. Manches'tr 

James MeFarhuul, Co. 11. 57th III. Inf. " 

Henry Woodring, '• C, 55tli 111. Inf. Wav'ly 

Fred Glitsher, Co. I, lOSlli 111. Inf.. ManclPer 

Jas. O. Maves, " I, 11th 111. Cav.. 

O. S. Fowler. Co. K. l.ith 111. Eaniont 

C. 15. liatoii, Band' 11th 111. Manchester, la 

A. O. Moore. Co. F. '.mh HI.. Manchester, la 

J. W. Parker, Co. B. 46th 111., 

A. J. Patch, Adj. 7tli Minn., I)ubu(iue, Iowa 

W. 11. Marshall. Col. 7tli Minn.. St. Paul 

W. II. More. Co. H. 16Cli Iowa. Dubu(iue, la 

C. II. Mattox, Co. It, Kith la.. Manchester 

A.J.Abbott, " C. 2iut la. Cav. 

Jas. Ireland, '" i. " " " 

John Wood, " " " " 

.1. 15. Thompson, Co. I. " " " 

H. Percival, Co. C, 7Ui N. Y. Manehe.ster, la 

A. F. Eooinis. Co. K, I2,5tli N. Y. Golden, la 

C. L. Iliuidle, Co. P., !i4th " Earlville. la 

Dr. C.C.Bradley, U.S., 13(;th n.Y. .Vlanch'er 

E. I). Allen, C(J. 1,5th N.V. Art., Eailvilh; 

J. B. Satterlee, Co. 15, 44Hin. Y. Manch'str 

E. F Sias, Co. 15, ISGtli N. Y. Manche.-;ter 

(Jeo. Cominerford, Co. A, 4Sth N. Y. " 

A. J. Simiison, CO. I<\ 13th N. Y. 

Peter Broadway, Co. A, (>4th N. Y. 

J. S. L. Scott, 'Co. F, 121.st 

J. T. Abbott, Co. I, 185tli 

E. S. Cowles, Co. (i, 7th la. Cav., Campttm 



MEXICAN WAR. 



M.S. Allen, A, Mich., Sabula, Iowa. 

H. I). Wood, 4th Co. 111. Cav. Manchester 



S. K. F:dgington, A, 3rd Ohio, Eldora. 
John carr, U. S. Frigate, Savannah, Man'str 



Thursday Morning. 



The first business of the hour was the reports of committees. 
Capt. Gift of the committee on finance reported the condition of 
the treasury. 

Comrade Dunham moved that a committee of three be appoint- 
ed by the chair who should confer with the reporter as to what 
matter should be prepared for publication in the proceedings of 
this convention. Carried and the chair appointed: Col. Jack 
Stibbs, G. E. Comstock and Lieut. J. E. Simpson. 

Col. Stibbs here presented Mr. Jas. C. Butts of Dyersville as an 
old soldier of the war of 1812; that he also served m our late war 
of '61. He is 89 years old, wears no glasses, reads an3^thing, was 
in the 37th Iowa, the grey-beards. Iowa is the only State that 
furnished those soldiers; boys, this is just what we are coming to; 
the last member of the 12th will stand up sometime. 

The boys gave the old soldier three rousing cheers. 

Comrade Smith of the committee on resolutions then reported 
the following which were adopted. 

Resolved, That it is with a profound sense of appreciation that we desire 
to tender to the citizens of Manchester our sincere thanks for their warm and 
hearty reception of the members of the 12th Iowa Volunteers. 

Resolved, That we will ever remember with delight this our second re- 
union at the beautiful city of Manchester, and as we go to our several homes, 
we will carry with us a happy recollection of the grand welcome and pleasant 
reception accorded us. 

Resolved, That we as veterans and members of the 12th Iowa Volunteers, 
hereby extend to the officers and members of W. A. Morse Post, No. 190, G- 
A. R., of Manchester, our warmest thanks for their hearty, soldierly greeting 
and good cheer. 

Resolved, That it is with a genuine sense of their hospitality to us that we 
wish them all long and prosperous lives, and that sometime in the near future 
it may be ours to return the compliment so cheerfully awarded us. 

Resolved, That we extend to the members of the First Regimental Band^ 
of Eldora, our warmest thanks for the excellent music rendered by them 
which has contributed so materially to the pleasure and success of this re- 
union. 

Resolved, That we respectfully request the Congress of the United States 
to pass a law pensioning all disabled union soldiers who are incapacitated from 
providing tor themselves and families, without limitation as to date of disability- 



32 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

Resolved, That the 12th Iowa Infantry, in reunion assembled, emphatically 
protest against the removal of Gen. J. L. Geddes as Military Instructor of the 
Iowa Agricultural College, and request his reappointment by the lioard of 
trustees, at the earliest practicable moment. 

Resolved, That our Senators and Representatives in Congress are hereby 
requested to use tiieir best endeavors to amend the bill now pending Congress 
to pension prisoners of war, so as to include all who were confined in rebel 
prisons fifty days or over. Many members of the 8th, 12th and 14th Iowa, the 
58th Illinois, and other Iowa, Oliio, Illinois and Missouri regiments, who were 
confined in rebel prisons filty-five days at Cahaba, Tuscaloosa, and Mont- 
gomery, Ala., and Macon, Georgia, are now physical wrecks, from starvation 
and ill-treatment, in aforesaid prisons, but are unable to prove such facts to 
the satisfaction of the Pension Department- Therefore, we ask the change 
above mentioned, m order that justice may be done them, and sadly needed 
relief secured. 

Resolved, That we extend to Col. W. R. Marshall, Gen. J. L. Geddes, two 
of our old brigade commanders, who have added so much to the real pleasure 
of our reunion, and to the other invited guests present, our sincere heartfelt 
thanks for the kindly interest they continue to take fn our regimental organi- 
zation. We hail them with pleasure, and shall always be pleased to meet 
them, and hereby extend to them a cordial invitation to attend our next and 
all following reunions. 

Resolved, That the warmest thanks of every member of the 12th Iowa 
Regiment are hereby extended, together with our soldierly greeting, to the 
officers and members of Company C, I. N. G., of Manchester, who have so 
signally contributed as escort, to the pleasure and success of this reunion, and 
that we shall ever remember with feelings of pride, their soldierly appearance 
and acts. 

Resolved, By the 12th Iowa Reunion Association that the Eldora Silver 
Cornet Band, of Eldora, Iowa, be and hereby are made honorary members of 
our association. 

The chair appointed on motion the following as committee to 
nominate officers: 

H. C. Curtis, Co. C. 
L. M. Ayers, Co. D. 
S. R. Edfjington, Co. A. 
J. E. Simpson, Co. G. 
S. G. Knee, Co. H. 

It was moved by Comrade Simpson that the secretary address a 
letter to Col. Woods, expressing our regret at his absence, thanks 
for his kindly remembrance and wishes for his welfare, with the 
warmest greetings of his old comrades in arms. 

The chair announced a committee of ladies from the citizens 
who desired to give the boys as hearty a welcome as they got 
from Shiloh. You will be compelled to retreat and let your foes 
take possession of the field. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 3 1 

The distribution of tickets to the banquet being in order, while 
they were waiting, Col. Stibbs said: 

«'//6> IS HELENE VIOLET B? 

This is a question that has been bothering the minds of many of us for 
the past four years, and I am glad to be able to say that I am fully prepared to 
answer it. I am free to confess that when I first learned of this mysterious 
personage I was a good deal surprised, and rather sorry too, to think that a 
sure enough woman had served for three long years with the 12th Iowa, and I 
never found her out. So when we began our preparations for this reunion I 
determined if possible to find Miss Helene and bring her with me, and I am 
happy to say, that she is now present an interested listener to my story, but 
she is not here in the form that many expected to see, and her appearance, 
age, height, complexion and style of her bangs can only be guessed at. 

It is a well established fact that there are persons in the world, who hon- 
estly believe that they have a dual existence, and that there dwells within them 
the spirit of another who accompanies them through life. Whether such a 
thing can be or not we have no time now to discuss, but the fact that the be- 
lief exists cannot be questioned. 

Such a person served in the 12th Iowa. He was a dutiful soldier and to- 
day carries the scars of wounds received while manfully facing the enemy. He 
told me this story in confidence and therefore I am not at liberty to give 
names, but I can assure you that he is honest in his belief and tiiat he has not 
sought to impose on us an improbable story. He claims that from his infancy 
he has carried with him the spirit of his sister, Helene Violet, that he is in con- 
stant communication with her, and she acts as his guide and counsellor. 
Warns him of impending dangers, and predicts events that are to occur. 
When slie chooses to speak for herself, he is compelled to act as her aman- 
uensis, and thus it happened that she made herself known to the regiment. 
She heard read the proceedings of our last reunion and her womanly nature 
was aroused and her sympathies excited by hearing of tiie part taken by 
little Florence Dunham the daughter of our worthy secretary, and she at once 
determmed to write to her. When liie soldier who represents her found what 
a storm of comment and curiosity her letter had provoked, besought to con- 
ceal his connection with the matter, as he recognized that which is a reality to 
him, would be ridiculed by many, and as I have given you the story in full, I 
ask that you will make no further effort to learn the name of the soldier who 
represents Helene Violet B. 

The reading of this little episode was warmly applauded, after 
which all repaired to the banquet room where an elegant repast 
had been prepared by the ladies of Manchester. Chaplain Hum- 
phrey having asked a blessing upon the generous fare, the boys 
fell to with a will and amply showed their ability to clear all be- 
fore them, then in good order each reteated to make room for the 
reserve force which followed until all had enjoyed the feast. 



30 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

AFTERNOON SESSION. 

The committee on nomination of officers reported as follows: 

President— Col. S. R. Edgington, Eldora, 

Vice President — Major D. W. Reed, Waakon. 

Secretary— Lt. A. Dunham, Manchester. 

Treasurer — Major G. S- Morisey, Manchester. 

Directors — Lt. S. G. Knee, Co. H, Colesburg; Gen. J. H. Stibbs, Co. D. Chi- 
cago; Sergt. R. P. Clarkson, Co. A, DesMoines; O. M. S John Stein, Co. G 
Wahoo, Neb ; Ben Eberhardt, Co. E, LaPorte. 

After considerable urging and coaxing to induce L,t. Dunham to 
accept the position of secretary, the report of the committee was 
adopted, and Col. Edgington conducted to the chair. The Colo- 
nel being introduced said: 

Comrades of the 12th: To the veterans I return my sincere thanks for 
this high compHment. I have considered myself too modest to appear before 
you; but it has been your pleasure to elect me your president for the ensuing 
year. I assure you that il I fail in aught, it will be in judgment, The heart 
will be right. I thank you again. I will attempt to do my duty. History says 
that the 12th was under fire 112 days, and I commanded the regiment more 
than fifty of those. What ever I may have been wanting in that, I shall be 
wanting in this. Again I thank you. 

One of the most interesting scenes of the reunion was enacted 
at this time. The boys called forward "Sukey" Jackson, the old 
drummer, S. M. French, former fife major, and H. J. Grannis the 
color-bearer. The long roll, reveille, tattoo were successively 
called for and beaten, and at their close three rousing cheers were 
given for each, with three for the old flag which was held by its 
bearer. 

The Chair then presented Capt. John F. Merry, the Gen. West- 
ern Passenger Agent of the lUinois Central, who had done much 
toward making the reunion a success. Capt. Merry said he felt 
as though he needed no introduction to this audience. There was 
scarcely a face that was not familiar to him. He had done what 
he could to ensure the success of the reunion, and was quite sure 
that his efforts had caused him more pleasure than they could have 
done anybody else. He spoke of recent visits to Vicksburg, and 
said a visit there would afford some idea of the grand character of 
a government that, while providing so liberally for the living sol- 
diers, cared so tenderly for the dead. The Captain's short speech 
was warmly applauded. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTY 33 

The Eldora Band then played some beautiful selections, when 
the chairman reported that he had just been handed a receipted 
bill for the entertainment of the band, while here. He said this 
was something wholly unexpected, and was but another evidence 
of the warm-hearted liberality of the people of Manchester toward 
the 1 2th regiment. He assured them their kindness would never 
be forgotten. 

The president announced as the special feature of the afternoon 
the toasts which were laid down in the exercises. Owing to the 
absence of expected guests, several changes were made; but all 
present highly enjoyed the following: 

Hon H. C. Curtis responded to the following: 

"THE FAMOUS CHARGE OF THE ENTIRE ARMY, May 22. 1863, at Vicksburg, Miss- 
Mr. President, Comrades and Fellow Citizens: — 

I confess to you that I am taken a little by surprise at this time, by bein«: 
called upon to respond to the sentiment, "The charge of the whole army at 
Vicksburg, May 22, 1863." Had I been called upon to relate some amusir.L; 
anecdote of the war in wiiich we struggled together for four long, long years, 
to conquer the brazen enemies of our country, I would not have wondered, 
but to recount the deeds and the heroic valor of our noble army, on that 
memorable day, and place on the canvass of your imagination, those awful 
scenes, that we all will remember as long as we live, I say tongue cannot de- 
scribe, nor pen picture, that awful struggle. The imagination staggers back, 
lost and powerless as we attempt to cast our eye back for twenty years on 
the scenes, awful yet grand and inspiring, on that bloody field. 

Let us go back for moment to Grand Gutf from which point that Iowa 
Army of Grant started for the interior of Mississippi, the ultimate object be- 
ing the capture of that strongest of all strong points, which tiie rebels held at 
that time, throughout the confederacy. We look over the history of France, 
and see the dashing effective campaigns of Napoleon, and wonder at the au- 
dacity of the plans of the great French General, surrounded as he was by his 
famous and trusty marshals- 

And yet, my dear comrades, no general of ancient or modern times, wen 
into a great campaign against such fearful odds, and discouraging circumstances 
as did our great general in the Vicksburg campaign. We marched rapidly to 
Jackson and Clinton, thus being placed exactly between two hostile armies, one 
of which was greater in number, and the other nearly as large as ours; but yon 
know better than I can tell you the fighting qualities of that devoted 40,000 
of which you were a part, that astonished the civilized world, with victory up- 
on victory from the day we left Grand Gulf till Vicksburg was ours with its 
vast munitions of war, and thirty -eight thousand rebel prisoners. 

The 15th army co p ; under W. T. Sherman, in which was the 12th Iowa, 
arriving at Jackson, after a rapid heavy march in the rain, about 4 p. m., struck 
I. E.Johnson's rebel army a stunning blow, destroymg Jackson with vast con- 
lederate supplies while the rebels were on the full run, completely demoraliz- 
ed. Our army was quickly concentrated at Champions' Hill, and thrown, like 
an avalanche of dynamite, against the Vicksburg army under Gen. Pemberton, 
who quickly withdrew his fragments of torn divisions and brigades within the 
intrenchments of Vicksburg. 



34 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



Come with me now for a moment, to our victorious army as it lay with its 
mighty arm stretching for six miles right and left around the doomed city. 
Every man that wore the blue in that devoted army, measured up to the full 
standard of a fighting veteran; in our rear, on Black River, was Johnson, stealth- 
ily, yet cautiously approaching us, bringing relief to the besieged garrjson of 
Vicksburg, retreat for us was annihilation to our army;,advance for our army on 
to the enemies works meant the loss of one brave boy in every third of our 
army. 

During the evening of May 21, '63, prior to that famous charge, and while 
the army lay quiet on their arms, orders were passed around among the var- 
ious commands that at the hour of one o'clock p. m., of the 22d, the enemies' 
lines and forts were to be stormed by a grand charge of the whole army. 
Little did our comrades who now slr-ep in heroes' graves in that field, dream 
that night, of the awful slaughter that awaited them, or that another twenty- 
four hours from that time, the whole northwest of our country would be a scene 
of wide spread grief and mourning. The hour came for the dreadful work, 
and 40,000 men plunged forward into the smoke and carnage of battle, into the 
jaws of death; 500 cannon belched forth their iron missiles of death. The 
clay clad hills of Vicksburg shook and trembled in the mighty storm of battle. 
The yellow earth-works of the enemy, assumed a grey appearance, as the 
storm of musketry, shot, shell and hand grenade rent the air, and are hurled 
full in the faces of our stealthily yet rapidly advancing divisions. Down 
steep hill sides, through brush felled and sharpened timber, now our flags 
were at a stand still, and now advancing on the enemy. Here and there in 
places our lines were on the enemies' works, and flags flying defiantly in the 
face of the enemy, until night threw her sombre curtains on the scene, did the 
work of death go on. Never did brave men fight with such desperation for the 
flag they love. Never did brave men strike harder for union and liberty, and 
yet that grand bleeding army of veterans was not discouraged, but persistent- 
ly held their ground gained at such expense of heroic blood until July 4th, fol- 
lowing, when the whole army of the confederate Gen'l. Pemberton, uncondi- 
tionally surrendered. With the fall of Vicksburg, the fall of the confederacy 
began. The monster reptile, (Secession) was cut in two never to be united ; 
but I have spoken too long, and will say no more. 

Col. Henderson then spoke on the sentiment: 

THE OPPOSING ARMIES OF 1861 -65— Their relations then, and now. 

At the very opening of my remarks I want to say that I hope every scl- 
dier present, though not a member of the 12th regiment, will feel, as we do, 
that he is a part of this reunion, (cheers) That's right comrades, I knew I was 
voicing the sentiment of every member of the old Twelfth. I have had my 
heart warmed by the greeting of these old soldiers, and I wanted to thank the 
good people of Manchester for not discriminating against any soldier, and for 
their most generous welcome to us all. 

I have had some other little incidents to warm my heart: There is a man in 
this audience who is a real type of the true warm hearted people of this coun- 
ty. I shall tell you what he did; but I will not mention his name, as he re- 
quested that nothing be said of his action. He came quietly up to our treas- 
urer and asked if he might be permitted to contribute a little to this reunion. 
He don't live in Manchester. He put his hand in his pocket, as he had done 
many a time before for the soldiers and their families, and pulled out, not cents 
or dimes but an X, and handed it to the treasurer. I have known him for 
twenty years. He was always among the first to volunteer aid to the soldiers. 
That is the kind of a man Ciiarles Crocker is, (I mention no names) a repre- 
sentative man, one whose big heart always thrilled in sympathy with the sol- 
diers, (applause.) 

One other little incident which might seem to be personal. There are 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 35 



those here who are the only living representatives of those who wore the blue. 
For the first time we have had with us a young man, whose father we called 
Tom. Before the battle of Shiloh he conducted a prayer meeting in the camp 
of the i2th. I have been warmed to see the boy. This is his first vacation. 
After his father's death the little fellow took the farm and worked winter and 
summer. He made my heart swell with emotion when he said he never had 
so enjoyed himself before. Pardon me if I do not speak his name. He is like 
Crocker, a type of many others. I have seen the grayheaded old men of your 
city — and mothers and sisters, drawn here by that influence which brings chil- 
dren to a common hearthstone. 

Now as to the opposing armies, their relations then and now. I do not 
need to speak of those old victories, and the armies then. I am quite sure the 
soldiers cannot be found who better understand those armies than the soldiers 
before us. You all know them well ; tliey were great armies, both of them. 
History will never place two such armies face to face again. Americans all — 
from many states, but every one of the common family. He who says the con- 
federate army was not brave will be laughed at by those living, and in history. 

One army — that which we aided, was impelled, was elevated by patriotism. 
The other was blinded by sectionalism, and infuriated by passion. We knew 
then and now that we were right; let that never be forgotten by Americans. 
They know ?iOcU that they were then wrong. I am glad to-day, let us accept 
the situation as it is. 

More than this I do not think this the proper time or occasion to say. A lew 
words as to those two armies now. Here I will not express the sentiments of 
all but I believe it is the honest sentiment of most of you. 

Take the Union army now. How do you feel about the past? Is there 
bitterness about the past, boys ? There is no bitterness in the heart of the 
union soldier towards the armies they opposed. We cannot afford it — can- 
not afford to keep up bitter feelings. My good friends, these boys fought to 
unite and keep united this country- We laid down many of our comrades to 
unite it, and we cannot atlord to divide it. We fought to make it the flag of 
America, and we want every man to be a brother that comes under its folds. 
Is there bitterness in your hearts now? Let us be just, my comrades and 
fellow citizens. From '6r to '65 there was bitterness in many hearts. I will 
not venture to tell the story. You all remember those times. No one need 
blush for Donalson. After the capture of the rebels, one of our men, shot 
through the head and unable to speak, attempted to cross a low place near 
the landing. Standing on the other side, was a long row of captured rebels. 
Our boy got stuck in the mud, beside the rebel line. He extended his hand 
for help. One near him said harshly, "Not by a damn sight." That was 
one side. Right beside the wounded comrade stood another, who sprang 
to his aid and helped him with both hands, then said to the other, "you are 
a pretty soldier." The true qualities of a man will stand out any where, 
and every-where as Burns has said: 

"A man's a man for a' that." 

My friends, bitterness should no longer be in our hearts. I am seated now 
in a legislative body, made up largely of confederate soldiers and officers. I 
forget these men ever stood in battle array against me. They speak to me as 
kindly as I could wish. We treat each other as friends, not enemies. I do 
not know a member of the 12th, who would clinch his hand when another open 
palm is stretched out to meet it. That is the feeling of the old 12th. Now, my 
friends, I am not making these utterances from any mere sentiment. I have 
said that you were right when you fought. Forget it not. You fought to save 
your country. When principle demands a soldier, whether in peace or war, be 
a soldier. When friendship is asked, be a friend. Your motto was "Crush 
the opposing army." We are now comrades. Let the two armies be lost in the 
heart of the whole American people. These are my sentiments and yours. My 



36 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



good friends.there are many of you who will have no marble over your last rest- 
ing place tc speak for you; but the records will show you were the vol- 
unteers of the 12th. You would not exchange that little record of honor for 
the fame of the C:esars, or the blood bought statue of Napoleon. 

We are getting old. We have given the spring time of our life to our 
cjuntry. The breath of autumn comes to fan our clieeks. Soon these little 
11, ikes silvering our hair will be turned to snow. Not far distant, our reunion 
will be iield in the tents of the immortal. Living thus let us cultivate those qual- 
ities as true citizens of America that will show we are great and generous 
soldiers; not for fame or blood; but that we were volunteers when called upon 
to save our country, and to defend it to the last. 

The boys then sang "My Country, 'Tis of Thee," while stand- 
ing upon their feet. Judge J. N. Weaver, of Algona responded 
to the toast: 

"uREENBACKS AND GRAYBACKS— The first we could not keep with us, the last 
were hard to drive away." 

As to Greenbacks, I do not know why your committee should have se- 
lected me to respond. I am incapable of handling the subject. I never have 
handled it very much. It may be that because of the intimate connection of 
tlie greenback question and a distinquished namesake of mine, you have 
thought appropriate to put down as a part of the program, Weaver on Green- 
b icks. But as distance lends enchantment to tlie view, I may be allowed to 
draw upon my imagination, so far as to say that greenbacks are agood thing, and 
actually, il I had my choice today, as between greenbacks and graybacks, I 
would take greenbacks. 

I suppose graybacks are good in their place; but I have never been able in 
my limited investigation of the natural order and eternal fitness of things to 
find any plan to assign to the graybacks; I say I have not. The grayback 
himself seems to assume that providence has marked out a field of artillery for 
him, and no granger more assiduously tickles the soil of his field than did our 
late comrade, the grayback. There is after all I find but little of the imagina- 
tive when we come to think of the grayback, e.xcept so far as actual experience 
may seem to bring on the fear of impending doom. Regarding the grayback 
hi nself, "tell me not in mournful numbers life is but an empty dream." With 
him, "life is real; life is earnest." He is all business, and he "always carries 
his point;" unless he gets settled upon one of the boys, in which case he im- 
poses that necessity upon the other fellow. Now I do not wish to ofifend the 
sensitiveness of any of the ladies present by the use of any improper or un- 
b.coming language; but this subject warms up as I advance, and I must say, 
that if there is any living thing or creature of similar size on earth, that is a 
more absorbing subject, more insinuating, sneaking, puney, "cussed" and devil- 
is, 1 without a rival; anything that can inflict more mortal agony and excrucia- 
ting pain to the square inch, and generate a tendency toward profanity, more 
than the original grayback, I have failed to discover him, and he has failed to 
Vif;ike me up. Screens will defeat the designs ot the mere mosquitoe. The 
grayback, as we had him, was every where present in spite of all obstacles. 
My toast says the graybacks "were hard to drive away." It may be th.nt the 
committee in using the term graybacks had in mind the other kind, "the John- 
nies." If that is true, I am sorry, for my interpretation has engendered a good 
deal of bad blood . But which ever was intended, that part of the toast is lit- 
erally true, for they were both hard to drive away, and the 12th Iowa, many times 
found to their sorrow, that the Johnny grayback was hard to drive away, and 
mmy of them found themselves in the position of Paddy, in the old story, 
when he caught the tartar. Paddy said, "I have caught a tartar." The cap- 
tain said, "bring him along then." Paddy said, "He won't come." "Then you 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 37 



come," said the captain. "Be-jabers he won't let me," said Paddy. Right 
there, I might add, we did have the advantage of the other grayback, for we 
could bring him with us. 

I would like to say of the greenbacks, that they were hard to get, between 
pay days especially, and we couldn't keep tliem. They, unlike the graybacks 
would get away from us. We couldn't keep them. They went a good ways 
with us, if it didn't take long for them to go. They were then the promises 
written down and printed ot the government we had sworn to preserve and de- 
fend, to pay us, sometime. We thought Uncle Sam's note was as good as his 
bond and they were, and proved so to be. If the Union had been destroyed, these 
greenbacks would have been worthless and valueless. If it was saved, the 
promise would be redeemed. The time did come when we caught the John- 
ny tartar, and though we did not always drive him away, we did finally bring 
him with us, and he is here to stay. The Union was restored, the pledge of 
the government was made good. 

In response to the sixth toast: 

"THE CITIZENS OF MANCHESTER.—Their Hospitality and Loyalty— Making their 
Homes our Homes, and our Reunion a Success." 

R. P. Clarkson said: 

Friends and Cojnradcs: The good people of Manchester have establish- 
ed themselves deeply and firmly in the hearts of every tnember of the Twelfth 
Iowa Infantry. We had such a pleasant meeting, were so kindly greeted, and 
so hospitably entertained at our first reunion, four years ago, that the mere 
mention or thought of Manchester has carried us back in imagination to the 
happy homes of those who so kindly greeted us and who labored so patrioti- 
cally and sympathetically to make our reunion a success. Time, in its never 
halting rounds has brought us back to our second quadrennial, and again have 
the people of this beautiful city captured our hearts by their unexcelled kind- 
ness and continued great interest in all matters concerning the 12th Iowa. 

Altoona, Pa., Wooster, Ohio, and Manchester, Iowa, are three places that 
will always live in the hearts and memories of the members of the 12th Iowa, 
but the first shall be last, and the last shall be first witii us always. The kind 
treatment received from the good people of Altoona and Wooster, as we were 
returning from rebel prison hells, forms two of the bright links in our war his- 
tory, but the unexcelled hospitality and heartfelt sympathy we have received 
from Manchester friends, throughout the war and at our reunions, have en- 
deared them to us forever, and the reunions made so grandly successful mainly 
by their patriotic labors and cheering presence, will always be remembered as 
the happiest events in our regimental history. 

Manchester has truly become a Mecca, to which the s>irviving members of 
the Twelfth Iowa make quadrennial piigrima^es to renew our patriotism, greet 
our comrades, "fight our battles o'er again," and enjoy the boundless hospital- 
ity of the cleanest and one of the most beautiful cities in Iowa. This city was 
the home of Company F, one of the very best companies in the Twelfth Iowa. 
They were a grand company ot gallant men, and it gives us great pleasure to 
see so many of them still reported present, fit for duty and full of rations. 
Sadly we miss those who have ioined the phantom army, and now wait the 
coming of the reserves in the world beyond; but nothing gives us greater 
pleasure than the heartfelt embraces and vigorous salutations we receive from 
those who still "hold the fort" at Manchester. 

I voice the unanimous sentiment of the 12th Iowa m saying that the mem- 
bers of Company F, members of W. A. Morse Post, and all the good people 
of Manchester are enshrined in our hearts and memories for their boundless 
hospitality, happy homes, pretty ladies, bright babies and brave men. No 



38 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

Other city has so strong a hold upon our affections and friendship. Our hearts 
are yours, our time is at your service, and our homes are always open to re- 
ceive you. May health, happiness, and prosperity always remain with you. 
Think of us vviien you are hap{)y and be happy all tiie time. 

Gen. Stibbs corrected iin error of Comrade Clarkson, concern- 
ing the names of places where the returning prisoners were en- 
tertained and subsequently wrote a letter on the subject which is 
here given in full: 

Chicago, May 23, 1884. 
A'. P. Clarkson, Esq., Dcs Moines, Iowa: 

Dear Dick. — During the proceedings at the reunion, yesterday, I made an 
attempt to correct a statement of yours; but as you know, the subject proved 
too difficult for me to handle, and 1 was unable to finish my story. I regretted 
it sincerely, for there was a bit ot inside history in what 1 tried to tell, that 
would have been new and interesting to many ot our comrades- 

When I was released from prison in 1862, being a captain at that time, I 
together with other officers of our regiment, was sent to Washington, D. C, 
and there furloughed for thirty days. We knew nothing, then, of the where- 
abouts of our enlisted men, and I went at once to visit my parents, at VVooster, 
Ohio. Within an hour after 1 reached home, I received a telegram from my 
brother Joe, telling me our boys were at Annapolis. Md., and asking me to 
come and take him from the hospital. 1 started on the first train, and found 
the poor fellow a living skeleton, debilitated beyond recognition. He died 
alterwards, from the effects of his imprisonment, and I am sure my comrades 
will approve my assertion, that no braver, better boy than he, ever shouldered 
a musket in defence of his country. 

When I reached Annapolis, I found the boys so anxious to get nearer 
home, that I determined to take them west, and when It was announced that I 
had secured an order to take them all to St. Louis, Mo., there was a joyful 
shout over the good news, and every sick man who had strength enough to 
stand on his feet, came forth from the hospital, all insisting that they were 
sound as a dollar, and fully able to stand the journey west. But I soon found 
that 1 had as many as seventy-five men in the party who were too weak to sit 
up in their seats, and in no condition to subsist on the army rations provided. 

At Baltimore we were given a supper at the Soldier's Rest, and a good, 
big lunch for each man to carry with him. 

The next evening, in response to my telegram, the ladies of Altoona, Pa., 
came to our train and provided us with a bountiful supper, and the following 
morning I sent, from a station on the line of the P. & F- W. R. R., a telegram 
insubstance as follows: 

"7(3 the President of the Ladies' Soldiers' Aid Society, Uooster, Ohio. 

I am coming on No. 4, in charge of 250 returned prisoners, many of whom 
are sick. Can you give us a breakfast?" 

I did not know into whose hands this telegram might fall; but I felt sure it 
would be some one who would recognize my name, and that it would at least 
result in the furnishing of a breakfast for my sick men. We were but two 
hours' run from Wooster, when my message was sent, and there was but 
little time for preparation; therefore we were surprised beyond measure at the 
reception given by the generous people. As 1 learned afterwards, the mer- 
chants had closed their stores, workmen left their shops, and every body had 
rushed home pell mell, to gather up whatever could be found in the way of 
eatables. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 39 



It seemed as though the entire city had turned out to meet us. Gallons 
upon gallons of good, hot coffee were furnished us, together with an abundant 
supply of delicacies of every description and a store of substantials that lasted 
us throughout the remainder of our journey. 

The conductor came to me and said he was already four hours late, and 
could not hold his train to have our men fed; but that he would carry forward 
and return a committee of citizens, who might be detailed for that purpose. 
' Accordingly, fifty or more ladies and gentlemen boarded our train with their 
supplies, and distributed them as we journeyed on, and at Mansfield they were 
transferred to the east bound tram and returned. This fact, no doubt, accounts 
for your confusion of names, and caused you to remember Mansfield as the 
place where we were entertained. 

While at Wooster my time was fully occupied; I had but a moment in 
which to greet my parents, and deliver to them poor, sick Joe, and assure them 
that as soon as my boys were disposed of, I would be back home for a short 
visit, and as we were about to start I called upon a friend and said to him: "Ex- 
plain to me George, the secret of this demonstration. I did not even hope for 
more than a breakfast for my sick men, and am amazed at this outpouring of 
my old friends and acquaintances. Tell me who is the President of your Aid 
Society?" 

The answer which came to me as the train moved off, was "Your mother.', 

I do not wonder that the old veterans of the 12th Iowa remember with 
love and gratitude, the generous people at Wooster, Ohio; and I think that after 
reading this you will not wonder that the recollection of this affair, caused my 
feelings to get the better of me for a moment, when I tried to correct you yes- 
terday- Very truly your friend, 

J. H. Stibbs. 

In response to the toast: 

IOWA AT SHILOH.— Heroes of the Hornet's Nest and Hells Hollow. They 
held their line of battle throughout the day on the memorable sixth of 
April, 1862; they sacrificed themselves, but saved the remainder of Grant's 
army from capture or entire destruction. 

Col. Geddes spoke as follows: 

Comrades and Fellow Citizetts: — In responding to the toast, "Iowa at Shi- 
loh,"I feel that this large audience is not critical, and I know'it is sympathetic, I 
consequently feel satisfied that it will treat any shortcomings on my part with 
tenderness and consideration. 

The name Shiloh always conveys to my mmd and my heart the vibrations 
of a melancholy cadence which the lapse of twenty-two years had failed to 
efface or even lessen: and as long as historic literature exists, it will ever be 
enshrouded with the glamour of heroic romance. The desperate and deter- 
mined resistance made by a few isolated Iowa regiments for ten consecutive 
hours, to the persistent onslaught of the flower of the southern army, in self- 
sacrifice and patriotic devotion equals in pathos, the classic record of Spartan 
valor in the Pass of Thermopylce- 

In no pitched battle of the war was Iowa so largely represented as there. 
Eight thousand five hundred of her sons faced the foe in the cause of free- 
dom and the Union on that bloody field, 1,200 were killed and wounded and 
1,100 consigned to tlie tortures of a long imprisonment in the dungeons of the 
South. It brought desolation to thousands of happy Iowa homes, and although 
time may allay, it can never wholly remove the sad wounds >oung Iowa received 
there. 



40 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



I do not wish in tliis presence to criticize the action of those great gener- 
als whom we all revere, and whose subsequent gallantry and distinguished 
leadership placed the martial prowess and glory of our country on the highest 
pinnacle of fame. But there were others on that field, that day, the 6th of 
April, 1862, who are entitled, as American citizens, to justice. Yes, my com- 
rades, to exact justice- No matter how subordinate your position in that 
grand old army, you are entitled to all. Yes, to all that the truth will reveal, 
ana nothing more, and you desire nothing more. 

The sad result of the first day's fight at .Shiloh, was caused by a combina- 
tion of mistakes, arising, as the lacts reveal, from culpable negligence or un- 
fortunate me.xperience; I will be charitable enough to base my opinion on the 
latter hypothesis. My comrades, it was a mistake, a fatal mistake, and in vio- 
lation of the plainest precepts of war and stategy, to form a camp of instruc- 
tion between an unfordable and unbridged river and a brave, determined and 
vigilant foe in close proximity, a foe alert and eagle-eyed, commanded by 
their most distinguished general, with subordinates of equal genius. How 
quickly advantage was taken ol this mistake, you, my comrade.s, well know. 
Citizen soldiers, raw and green as the beautiful prairies they so lately left, 
were dumped jjromiscuously on that river landing. Thousands were led to 
the slaughter that morning, who had never before handled a musket or bit a 
cartridge. It 'was a mistake my comrades, when in case of reverse, our re- 
treat was efifectually cut off by a deep, rolling river, not to have some sort of 
defense behind which our inexperienced men could shelter themselves in case 
of attack. You know, also, that there was nothing of the kind on that day. 
No, your own manly breasts were the defense that met the enemy in the grand 
swoop of their might on that defenseless camp on the banks of the Tennessee. 
Like a rock in a mighty, rushing torrent, you Iowa boys stood, as it rushed 
against, around, but never over you. 

It was a mistake that the division of brave men at Crump's Landing, who 
with eager ears, listened to the booming of guns, at Shiloh, and knew that 
their comrades were hard pressed, were not brought there before the sun had 
set on the bloody field. Yes, my comrades, it was a mistake that cost young 
Iowa, her best young blood, that the division which had lain there for three 
weeks previous, with ample force of cavalry, should have been ignorant ot the 
nearest road to Shiloh, six miles distant. 

The time allotted me on this occasion will not permit me to discuss any 
more ol the causes which led to the disastrous results of that battle. But this 
I will say, that the Second, Seventh, Eight, Twelfth and Fourteenth Iowa Reg- 
iments of Infantry, at the distance of a mile and a half from the landing, fought 
and held their position there from eight o'clock until near sundown; held in 
successful check the right center of the rebel army, and at half past five o'clock 
in the evening were still fighting a division of the enemy, while its main body 
was within four hundred yards of the Union army at the landing, with its re- 
treat completely cut off by the river. 

Now, my comrades, in view of these tacts— and these are not all the facts 
— had that division of the rebel army not been held at bay by these regiments 
— and that it was held so, I need only to refer you to Gen. Ruggles' report for 
corroboration — had it been tree to act with the rest of the rebel army at the 
landing before it was too dark, what I ask you would have been the fate of 
the crowded thousands huddled together there? 

Why has there been so much said and written about the battle of Shiloh? 
Why, after the lapse of nearly a quarter of a century, does this interest still 
exist, and as the years roll by, only increase in intensity of pathos? Why is it, 
my comrades of "Iowa's Shiloh Brigade," you cling so fondly to the memories 
of that fight, and with a tenacity that throws into the shade, as it were, the 
many other great battles of the war in which you gallantly participated? I ask 
you, men of the old Twelth Iowa, you who were always est-^emed by the 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



41 



Eighth Iowa boys as brothers, and whose associations together were always 
pleasant, why is it, when you look upon your emblazoned and tattered banner 
now suspended in Iowa's capitol, your eyes linger long and mournfully on that 
name ''Shiloh?" The names of Fort Henry, Fort Donelson, Vicksburg, Jack- 
son, Nashville, Tupelo, where you "plucked victory from the arms of defeat," 
and many other names are there that signal your gallant deeds? Why is it 
then, I ask that among all these fields that record your devolion to your coun- 
try's cause you visit and would far rather visit that timber-crested hill on thebanks 
of the Tennessee? And permit me to inquire why it is that a suffering public — 
as comrade, Col. Shaw, is pleased to call them — are not yet tired of what has 
been said and written about that memorable battle? My comrades, all these 
questions may be answered and are answered in a sentence containing only 
five words; but pregnant with immeasurable meaning— "justice has not been 
done." But "truth crushed to earth will rise again," and the truth about Shi- 
loh is rising, and will yet be written, so to speak, on the canopy of high heav- 
en, to be seen and read of all men, for all time. Justice will yet be done and 
after the lapse of twenty-two years is being done. Done to you my comrades, 
who meet here today, and done to those of our number who fell at Shiloh, and 
today are resting in unknown graves near that Soutiiern river's bank. 

And you, my comrades, who lately visited that sacred spot on the field of 
Shiloh, did you not that day, as you marched over the old familiar roads, or 
stooped over the graves of your departed comrades, with the crowding mem- 
ories of the great past, picturing themselves on your minds, feel something of 
that strange, weird influence that impressed the heart of the old French sol- 
dier, who returning after long and vaiied services in the German wars, battle 
scarred, worn and weary, came on his homeward march to the banks of the 
Rhine which separated him from his home in beloved PVance? As the old 
soldier gazed upon his native land, his heart was filled with emotions of ten- 
derness, as his memory recalled two loved comrades who, in the glow of youth- 
ful ardor and strength of early manhood, thirty years before, had crossed that 
same stream with him, and whose bones had for many years been bleaching on 
the battle fields of Germany. He was lerried across the river, and as his feet 
touched his native soil, he took the price of three fares from his purse, and 
said: 

Take, O boatman, thrice thy tee; 

Take, I give it willingly. 

For, invisible to thee. 

Spirits twain have crossed with me. 

Did you not, my comrades, on that visit, feel conscious, like the old French 
soldier, of an unseen presence there, of some dear comrade of the infinite. 
He has gone home; has fought his last battle. His discharge has come, and 
his remains lie buried in an unknown grave. Yes, theie were those in that 
grand old army bound to us by the closest ties of friendship, and there is no 
friendship so strong and abiding as that found in mutual suffering and danger. 
No union of hearts more sacred than that which is united by the heart's best 
blood. 

By communion of the banner. 
Battle scarred and glorious banner, 

By baptism of the banner, 

Brothers of one church are we. 

"Stfipes and Stars, Answer to Bonnie Blue Flag," a song com- 
posed by Col. Geddes, while in prison at Selma, Alabaina, was 
then sung. 



42 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



STRIPES AND STARS. 



Answer to '■'■Bonnit' Blue Flas," 



Music arranged by Henry Werner. 
We're fighting for our Union. We're fighting for our trust. 

We're fighting lor that happy land where sleeps our fathers' dust; 
It cannot be dissevered, tho' it cost us bloody wars. 

We can not give up the land where floats the Stripes and Stars I 

CllORCS. 

Hurrah! Hurrah! for equal rights hurrah ! 

Hurrah for the brave old flag that bears the Stripes and Stars. 

We treated you is brothers until you drew the sword, 
With impious hand, at Sumpt< r; you cut the silver cord, 

So now you hear our bugles. We come, the sons of Mars; 

We'll rally round the brave old flag, that bears the Stripes and Stars. 

We do not want your cotton : we care not for your slaves; 

But rather than divide this land; we'll fill your Southern graves. 
With Lincoln for our chieftain, we'll wear our country's scars. 

We'll rally round that br..ve old flag that bears the Stripes and Stars. 

The chairman announced a ten minutes speech, on "A Soldier's 
Attachment," by Capt. J. F. Zediker, of Co. I, 12th Iowa. He 
said he had come 600 miles to attend this reunion, and it seemed as 
though^ ten minutes was a short time in which to say what he 
would like to say to his old comrades. The attachment of old 
soldiers for one another, was formed on the field, in the camp and 
on the march, enduring privations under the summer heats and 
thejchill blasts of winter. Made strong by hunger and thirst, and 
hardships endured together; by danger and suffering; by the loss 
of comrades left on the battle field; by sutierings in Southern pris- 
ons. Is it a wonder that'our attachment should be so strong? A 
few more years, and those who meet at these gatherings will be 
feeble and few. But let us all, while any of us are left, instill into 
the minds of our children, the same sentiments of loyalty and 
patriotism that actuated us. 

The Hon. J. W. Shannon, of Dakota, then read the following 
poem, suggested by Charlie Larson's last words to Col. Hender- 
son — "It's all Right." 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 43 



'/T/S ALL RIGHTr 



Rings voice from Orient, old and far, 

From region battle riven: 
"Sweet words earth's lovliest daughters are, 

But deeds are sons of Heaven!" 

O men of miglity deeds! that shine 

With flaming Shiloh's glow, 
We come with words, and measur'd line. 

The sweetest that we know, — 

As loving "daughters," proud and true. 
To greet the "sons" whose deeds 

Have wrought the nation all anew. — 
Anew have writ its creed. 

We love you well ! and yet how tame 

The warmth we know and feel, 
Beside these friendships knit in flame 

'Midst clang of clashing steel ! 

We know our alien place at feast, 

Where vet'rans iire-tried, 
'Neath beaming skies of golden peace, 

Live o'er with martial pride, — 

The days when terror's trumpet-blast. 

Announced the lurid morn ! 
Whose noon, with sulph'rous cloud o'ercast; 

But presaged deadlier storm ! — 

Where shoulders touched, 'midst mad'ning roar, 

To close in freedom's name, 
The gap where murd'rous cannon poured 

It's all-devouring flame ! 

Dark days when faltering line was torn, ■ 

And bravest heart stood still; 
The joy of vict'ry's sunburst born; 

The cheers that shook the hills ! 

The days of tramp and blist'ring toil, 
-» The nights of dreams of home, 
On blanket wet, and crimson soil; 

Where mangled comrade moaned. 

Of famine gaunt, in loathsome cage, 

Where vicious vermine tooth 
Tattooed the scars of fiendish rage 

On flesh of noblest youth ! 

Ah ! who that wrought at home may dare 

To touch the sandal's hem. 
Of least who fought, and wear these scars 

Of scourge and prison den . 

How soon must fade the record, rare, 

Of highest civil fame. 
Beside the burning line that bears 

Dear Charley Larson's name! 



44 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



"It is all ripht, if Right prevail!" 

He said. So spake ye all 
Who faced, with him, hell's flaming hail, 

To conquer or to fall. 

It is all right with them wiio died. 

God knows when work is done, 
Alike in peace and battle-tide, 

Where service is his own, 

"It is all right, my heroes true !" 

The State proclaims today; 
Though blooming boys of gallant blue, 

Fast join Time's Iron-Grays, — 

Nor Time nor age can luster dim 

Of names your children bear; 
Proud glory's page is writ for him, 

Whose father's name is there. 

"It is all right! It is all right!" 

Aspiring masses call, 
Throughout the world; "in Freedom's fight 

Ye conquered for us all !" 

Oh God! who lead'st the march of man. 

Thy soldiers, sure, are these. 
Who fearless fought! — who faithful stand 

In all the ways of peace. 

If loving song and hon'ring cheers 

May yield the brave delight; 
Let all Tliy Heavens echo here, 

"// ?5, dear boys, all right!" 

Then was sun^, by request of a veteran, "We shall Meet but 
We shall Miss Him." 

Capt. Simpson said he had a message for the 12th Iowa. 
Last Sunday he met Mrs. Nelson Burdick, of Decorah, who had 
five sons in the army, two in the 12th Iowa — Corporal Nelson Bur- 
dick, her youngest son, who died from disease contracted in rebel 
prisons, and Lieutenant A. A. Burdick, killed at Tupelo, belong- 
ing to the 1 2th Iowa. She wanted Mr. Simpson to say to the 
boys that she loved every member of the old 12th, and that she 
should ever remember them with the tenderest regard 

On motion of Col. Henderson, Comrade Simpson was instruct- 
ed to return to Mrs. Burdick the assurance of the undiminished 
regard and aflection of the 12th Iowa. 

Col. Henderson offered the following resolutions: 

Resolved, — T\\?l\. the thanks of the members of this reunion are due and 
are hereby gratefully tendered to Mrs. Kate M. B. Wiison, Mrs. A. J. Brown, 
Miss Carrie C. Toogood; Messrs. A. D. Brown, J. F. Merry, W. H. Nurris, Geo. 
W. Dunham. R. G. Kennedy and Ben. Keller, for the music So wisely chosen, 
and beautifully rendered on this occasion. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 45 

Resolved, — That no special thanks are herein given to Comrade Com- 
stock's inspiring efforts with the other singers, for the reason that he enjoys it 
so thoroughly himself, that his efforts carry their own compensation with them. 

Resolved, — That we hereby tender a vote of thanks to Mrs. W. A. Morse, 
for use of piano, and Messrs. Torrey & Jones for organ. 

Comrade Marvin stated that the number of veterans of the 12th 
present was 166, and a total of 300 altogether. The 12th was di- 
vided as follows: Co. A, 10; B, 7; C, 32; D, 18; E, 16; F, 28; G-> 
13; H, 18; I, 5; K, 10, and were enlisted from New Hamp.?hire, 
Vermont, Massachusetts, New York, Pennsylvania, Indiana, Ohio, 
Missouri, Ilh'nois, Wisconsin, Nevada, low^a, Michigan. Four 
Mexican veterans were present and an 1812 veteran. 

The ladies, for the excellent dinner furnished, were compliment- 
ed by cheers and a tiger. Business ensued and it was requested 
that the names of the wives and daughters and mothers of com- 
rades be sent to the'secretary. 

Lieut. J. B.Morgan, Lieutenant Small and Major Reed were ap- 
pointed a committee to prepare a history of the Union Brigade. 

Col. Henderson introduced Major Brodtbeck, who made a few 
happy remarks. 

An incident, worthy of record, is that Mrs. E. C. Lankins came 
from Denver, Colorado, to attend the reunion. Mrs. Lankins was 
with the regiment two years. She is the widow of F. F. Lankins, 
Co. B, 1 2th Iowa, who died at Denver, Col., two years ago. 

The order of exercises was then pronounced to be that each 
must "tell a story, sing a song or stand on his head." Col. Stibbs 
being called out said he wished to tell a little incident about the 
major. It was in January, 1862, the boys concluded to present 
the major with a testimony of regard. They purchased a sword 
and appointed the orderly serg'eants, headed by Morrissey to call 
upon the major and present it. They made their call in the even- 
ing, passed over the sword, and it broke the ol^ major all up. At 
last he said, "Boys I will ask you to haf some peer;" and call- 
i.ig his colored servant, he told him to go out and get soine. "How 
much will you have," asked the servant. There were eleven of 
the part)'; the major looked them all over, sized up the crowd, 
and as he took their measure and his owm, he said, "About sev- 
en kegs." Yes, seven kegs for eleven men. 



46 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



Ben. Eberhart was called forward to exhibit himself and his 
"glass eye." He took up another incident of the major, when the 
1 2th were in camp at Dubuque. Our old major liked to pick up 
the greenies. One day he was riding along, and met a young fel- 
low, who awkwardly saluted him. Straightening himself up, the 
major frowned on him and said: ''How dare you salute me?" 
The fellow said "I wasn't salulin' you; I was salutin' your horse." 
The major passed on. 

IT. P. Andrews said: At one time on the march, Major Vandu- 
zee was in command. You know he was very strict. There 
were strict rules ajjainst forairinir. This was in Missouri. While 
marching one day, just a few rods over a fence, Ketchum, (he 
was corporal) saw a chicken running along. It was too tempting. 
Handing his gun to a comrade, he sprang over the fence and 
gave chase. The major saw him and in his squeak}' voice, he yell- 
ed out, "Corporal — Ketchum." Ketchum looked over his shoulder, 
and said, "Yes, sir," but continued the race and brought in his 
prize. Night came and we went into camp. Every one wonder- 
ed what the major would do. We expected Ketchum would be 
reduced to the ranks. A summons soon came by an orderl}^ for 
Ketchum to appear at headquarters. He entered the tent 
where the major was vvritmg; saluted him, and at length said, "I 
am here, sir." "What did you mean by disobeying my order, 
sir?" "1 did not disobev sir," said the corporal. "What do you 
mean?" sternly demanded the superior. "Well," said Ketchum, 
"you said Corporal, Ketch 'em, and I did Ketch ,em." "Go to 
your tent, sir," was the order, and that was all we ever heard of 
it. 

Comrade S. R. Burch said on call for a story: Chaplains Hum- 
phrey and Bagg were riding out one day. Humphrey, you know, 
was a great fellow to ask questions. Well these two came to a 
farm house where they found an old lady, whose negative answer 
to every question was surprising. She "did not know." At last 
Humphrey asked her if "there were any Episcopalians round there. 
Said she didn't know. Our two chaplains turned about and were 
riding through the gate when the old lady called out, "Say mister, 
I saw the skun of one hangin' on our neighbor's shed door one 
dav." 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 47 

Chaplain Humphrey here remarked he had always noticed the 
name of the animal depended somewhat upon the complexion of 
the man who told the story. 

Many other reminiscences were related hv those present when 
the lateness of the hour forbade further indulj^ence. 

The president announced that the next reunion of the 12th 
would take place in 1888, the time and place to be announced 
hereafter. 

The meetin^T adjourned, pronounced to be the most enjoyable 
reunion ever held in Iowa or an^/where else. The vets were es- 
corted to the train, which pulled out in the midst of a fierce storm 
of rain, thunder, lightning and rousing cheers from those left be- 
hind. 




48 SECOND REUNIOxX OF THE 



ADDENDA. 

We here append several interesting letters, &c., which did not 
prciperly belong with the proceedings of the reunion, but which 
the comrades of the twelfth will find will greatU' enhance the 
w'ork. 

The first is by Comrade R. P. Clarkson, written to the lozva 
State Register^ ^i^'in.^ 'in account of his visit to the field of Shiloh. 



ON THE TENNESSEE. 



APRH. 4, 15 



At Paducah, Ky., we were kindly greeted by the mayor, city clerk, and 
many others, wlio seemed pleased to meet so many Northern people. Col. 
Huston, the city clerk, was a confederate, but he gallantly admits that the lost 
cause was fairly and honorably beaten, and he is now an active, fighting Re- 
publican. He says that all that is necessary to enable the Republicans to carry 
Kentucky this fall, is for them to "make a school-house and cross roads cam- 
paign like you do in Iowa." Paducah is an active business city, and has been 
very much improved since the war. 

We passed Fort Henry, 71 miles from Paducah, Friday night. This is the 
point where many of us heard the first "loud barking ot the dogs of war" 
when they meant business. Here the gallant Conmiodore Foote demolished 
a strongly built and heavily armed fort, in less than half an hour, with his gun- 
boat fleet, and thus opened the river to the army of the Tennesse.-*. Tiie heavy 
works on the banks of the river have been leveled down, but th^ fortifications 
on the bluft are still intact, and looked grim and defiant in the distance. 

The people who gathered at the banks at every landing seemed to be ol 
the free and easy class, too tired to work and too proud to beg. They were 
generally pleased to see so many "Yanks" in one crowd again and conversed 
ireely in regard to war tmies and their present political and social condition. 
ThereJ are no school houses on the hills — not one seen by us between Paducah 
and Shiloh — but there are still houses in many valleys. The rich send their 
children to Paducah and other cities to be educated, but the only education 
that the children.of the poor get is given them by their parents, who are almost 
universally illiterate. There is a splendid country along the Tennessee, and 
intelligence and Yankee energy would soon develop it into one of the most 
prosperous regions of the United States. It has splendid and boundless tim- 
ber and limestone, and the soil, with proper cultivation would produce im- 
mense crops of corn, cotton, peanuts, etc. The climate is mild, as indicated 
by the fact that steamers run on the river the whole year. Nature has been 
lavishly bountiful in favors bestowed, but the inhabitants do not realize the 
possibilities within their grasp. 

Conversation with men at the landings developed the fact that three-fourths 
of the men along the Tennessee were rebels. They talk very freely about war 
times and boast of the victories they won, but generally close up the conversa- 
tion with "you 'uns were too much for we 'uns in the long run." There is still 
considerable hard feeling between Confederates and Unionists, as the people 
here call the two classes, but the strong general fear of Uncle Sam's wrath, 
generally keeps the rebel element in subjection. At Shipp's landing, Mr. VVm. 
Hawks stated that he was in a rebel regiment in the rebel center at Ft. Don- 
nelson, and that on the evening before the fort surrendered, his brigade was 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 49 



double quicked to the rebel right to dislodge Tuttle, but we couldn't do it and 
were captured and taken to Chicago, where we were kept in prison for seven 
months, when we were exchanged and sent to Vicksburg, where Tuttle and bad 
luck again overtook us, and knowing on the night ot the 3d of July that Vicks- 
burg would be surrendered on the 4th, I slipped out between the pickets of 
both armies, went to La Grange, Tenn., took the oath of allegiance and re- 
mained at home during the remainder o( the war." This was interesting his- 
tory to the men oi our party who fought under Tuttle. 

Mrs. M. M. Sheldon, of Perryvilie, Tenn., had three sons in the Union army 
and two in the Confederate. Four of them were in the battle of Shiloh, two 
in each army. One of the sons died during the war, but four returned, and 
they fight their battles o'er and o'er every time they meet. They differon 
politics, prohibition and all other issues, and the mother says that it seems im- 
possible for them to agree on anything. 

Mr. A. O- Montague, a farmer eight miles from Clifton, Tenn., is on the 
boat returning home from Paducah. He was a member of the Forty-eighth Con- 
federate Tennessee, and talks quite intelligently on political matters. In his lo- 
cality, the Democrats and Republicans are about equal in numbers, and there 
are no greenbackers. The state of Tennessee has a law prohibiting the sale 
of all into.xicating liquois within four miles of unincorporated towns, where 
schools are taught ten months in the year. 

About midnight, April 5th, our boats tied up at Crump's Landing for the 
night. This landing was made famous by the inactivity of Gen. Lew Wallace 
during the battle of Shiloh. VV^allace had 8,000 men, and was ordered by Gen. 
Grant to march to Shiloh by the Purdy road, on the morning of April 6. He 
waited until the roar of the battle roused iiim Irom his lethargy and then slow- 
ly marched out on the Purdy road. Nearing the battle field where his men 
were so badly needed, and which was only five miles from his camp, he coun- 
termarched to Crump's Landing, and then came up the river road. In this 
way he did not reach Shiloh until the first day's battle was over. If he had 
obeyed Grant's orders he would have reached the battle field before noon of 
the first day's battle, and the Purdy road would have brought him to the rear 
of the rebel army, which would have enabled our forces to defeat the Confed- 
erates before noon and to capture a large portion of their army. Wallace was 
not punished for disobeyance of orders, but he should have been shot. He has 
no friends in the army of the Tennessee- 
Leaving Crump's Landing at 8:15 this morning, with the boats lashed to- 
gether, we rounded the point below Shiloh, at 8:30; when the stars and stripes 
at the cemetery first floated in view, the veterans gave three cheers for the old 
flag, both steamers whistled vigorously and long. And the Audubon band 
struck up "Home Again." Reaching the old landing at 8:45 we filed otTin two 
rows like the regulars" and marched up the hill to the cemetery, the band play- 
ing "Marching through Georgia." At the cemetery gate every head was un- 
covered and the procession marched bareheaded around the bluff and back to 
the stand which was decorated with evergreens and draped with the star; and 
stripes. 

The exercises at the cemetery were short but impressive. The day was 
pleasant, warm and spring like and every veteran seemed to fully realize that 
he was standing among the graves of thousands of comrades who laid down 
their lives in defense of a country that has not proved worthy of the great 
sacrifice. 

After the exercises were concluded there was a general liand shaking with 
about one hundred citizens of the vicinity and a number from Corinth, after 
which there was a hurried inspection of the cemetery and, then a rush of the 
veterans for the old camp. 

The whole bat^'e field was soon a scene of active tracing out of old camps 
and positions in ittle, and as representatives of nearly every regiment in the 
fight are on the round, there was little difficulty in tracing out the positions 



50 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



held, lost and won in the terrible struggle of twenty-two years ago. The most of 
the heavy timber on the field in 1862 has been cut off, but many of the battle- 
scarred trees are still standing, and with the help of these and the numerous 
ridges and gulleys we were enabled to fully and finally settle many long dis- 
puted points. Representatives of the Iowa Brigade composed of the Second, 
Seventh, Twelfth and Fourteenth Iowa, headed by Col. Shaw of the Fourteenth 
Iowa, mounted, Gen. Tuttle and the test of us on foot, easily found our first 
line of battle, followed the line ot retreat to the last desperate struggle of the 
Eight, Twelfth and Fourteenth Iowa, and part ot Gen. Prentiss' division, where 
less than 4,000 men fougiit the three rebel divisions, of Polk, Hardee and 
Breckenridge, for half an hour, when our ammunition was exhausted and we 
made the last effort to escape in a deadly, pell mell rush across "Hell's Hol- 
low" and were finally forced to surrender in the Third Iowa's tents just at sun- 
set, the last heavy fighting in the first day's contest. This little band by their 
stubbornness in being the last to give way on the entire line, had saved the 
balance of the army from capture, but had sacrificed themselves. How well 
they fought the thousands of "unknown" graves in the National Cemetery on 
the bluff sadly and strongly tell. Their line of retreat, the crossing of "Hell's 
Hollow" and the point of capture were more thickly strewn with dead bodies 
than any other place in the fearful struggle. Not one-half of the number of 
any of the three Iowa regiments named, who so grandly marched forth to 
battle on that beautiful Sabbath morning, were ever reported for duty again. 
Their bodies rest in tiiis beautiful cemetery and in the accursed soil around the 
rebel prison pens in nearly every Southern State east of the Mississippi river, 
and in home cemeteries, where they were laid by loving hands, from disease 
contracted in the rebel prison hells. But enough of sadness before remem- 
brance drives the pencil to bitterness. 

The day has been well spent by the veterans in hunting mementoes of 
the battle and they have generally secured a goodly number, consisting of 
bullets picked up from the ground or chopped out of trees, broken gun bar- 
rels, bayonets, cannon balls, shells, grape and cannister shot, etc. The whole 
field has been thoroughly searched and it is safe to say that thousands of pounds 
of relics will be carried away as highly prized treasures, to be handed down 
to future generations as mementoes of the hardest fought battle in the West 
and one of the most stubbornly contested great battles of the war. 

SECOND DAY. 

This had been a busy day with the excursionists in huting for relics and 
in exploring every portion of the old camp and battle ground. The search 
for relics has been highly successful, and everybody is well laden with shot 
and shell, bullets of all kinds, canes, bayonets, rusty gun barrels, gun caps, etc. 
The trees in the deadliest portion of the battle field were literally filled with 
bullets, and the most of the trees that were here during the battle are dead, 
many of them standing monuments of the deadly fray, but about an equal 
number have fallen to the ground and are rotting away. The excursionists 
have chopped into the old trees on every side, and successfully angled for the 
old bullets, the point of entrance into the trees being still plainly marked by 
a scar on the bark. In the live trees the bullets were generally found about 
four inches from the bark, and the rings of the growth of these trees show 
plainly the twenty-two years' growth since the battle. Axes and hatchets were 
in demand to cut the bullets out of the trees, and there are many blistered 
hands aboard the two boats tonight The bullets in the dead trees were more 
easily secured, being readily picked out with knives or punched out with canes 
or sticks. The natives report that nearly all the larger trees that stood on 
the ground during the battle were killed by the infantry balls shot into them, 
and nearly every tree struck squarely by cannon shot or shells near the ground 
died in a few years after the battle. Many of these now cumber the ground 
but the larger number have been worked up into rails or utilized for firewood. 
The old stumps were good land marks — for nearly every soldier present had 
stood behind a long to be remembered tree when the bullets were Hying thick 
and last during some portion of the day, and those trees and stumps have been 
of great service in tracing out the different positions held durmg the day. The 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 5 1 



writer sat upon the stump of a tree today, behind which "Long Ace Wickham." 
of Co. A, i2th Iowa, stood sideways and loaded and fired his musket in the 
last desperate stand made by the 12th Iowa before their wild, but deadly rush 
across "Hell's Hollow," near the close ot the first day's battle. While stand- 
ing behind this tree Mr. Wickham was wounded and one ball made four holes 
in him and forty-seven holes in his clothing, but he continued to load and fire 
as long as the rest of us. We secured a piece of the old stump and if his 
eyes happen to see this letter, and he will send his present address to the Iowa 
State Register, Des Moines, Iowa, a splinter of tlie stump will be sent to him. 
The plowed fields yielded a vast number of musket balls and cannister shot, 
and all of them were quite thoroughly searched. .Some of the large sixty-four 
pound gunboat shells, thrown by the gunboats during the night after the first 
day's battle were picked up near the line of battle first held by the division of 
Gen. Prentiss, nearly two miles from the river, and pieces of these shells were 
picked up on nearly all portions ot the battle field occupied by the left wing 
of the Union army. Tonight the excursionists are well laden with relics, and 
it is estimated that they have picked up during the past two days 5,000 to 10, 
000 pounds of bullets, balls, shells, muskets, &c., and now have them on the 
boats. They are valuable relics, and will be handed down carefully to the 
children ol coming generations as mementoes of the terrible battle of Shiloh. 



Morning there was a general agreement for an Iowa reunion at the 'Hor- 
nets' Nest," the name given by the rebels to the deadly position held all 
day by Tuttle's brigade, and a portion of Prentiss' division. During the fore- 
noon about one hundred men and some of the ladies visited this noted point, 
the majority of the men present having been in the brigade of Gen. Tuttle and 
the division of Gen. Prentiss. The position held by Tuttle's brigade was fully 
traced out, nearly every man present being able to find nearly the exact spot 
where he stood in ranks or laid upon the ground during the long hours of the 
first day's fight, previous to the retreat late in the day. The Hornet's Nest 
and Hell's Hollow received more attention, and were more enquired for than 
any other points on the battle-field, and the trees at and between these two 
points were chopped into all over to secure bullets. A majority of the crowd 
lingered about these points nearly all day, securing the necessary information 
to enable them to help straighten up some of the fallacies of this famous but 
poorly reported battle. Gen- Tuttle and Col. Shaw were thorough and search- 
ing in their examination of the field, and they hope to secure a re-survey of 
the battle-field by the government in order that history may be corrected, and 
full justice done the brave men who fought all over this portion of the battle- 
field, and made it famous with the best blood in their commands. There was 
general regret that Gen. Prentiss was not present in order that the line in front 
of his position could have been more fully traced out, but the different loca- 
tions of Tuttles brigade have been fully and positively identified, and coming 
timfe cannot erase them from the memory of those present to-day who were in 
the fight twenty-two years ago. 

Shiloh church and spring were also two prominent places visited. The 
old church was burned down some years ago, but the water flows from the 
spring over a little.pebbly bottomed channel in the same volume that it did du- 
ring the war, and the appearance of its surroundings ha? not materially 
changed. A new church has been built on the site of the old church by the 
so-called "Southern Methodists," whUe a quarter of a mile nearer the landing 
a new church has been built by the so-called "Northern Methodists." This is 
not a well posted theological pencil, therefore it cannot tell why these church- 
es are designated as above, but we are informed that they were so designated 
during and before the war. 

The rebels present, during the two days have been few in number. The 
programme had been arranged for the citizens to give us a basket dinner at 
the Shiloh spring Sunday and they had agreed to do so, but the old prejudices 
overcame their good intentions and so they abandoned the basket dinner be- 
fore we arrived. A majority of the people we saw on the battle-field were 
those who were Unionists during the war, many of them in the Union service, 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



free it from that false claim, "as a nation of the free," and to place our flag on 
tlie very pinacle of fame, we must see too that our flag floats on the very 
piuacle of fame, we must see, too, that our flag floats from every school 
house in tiie lanrl and that the rising generation inherits and imbibes that 
spirit of loyalty and patriotism which you learned during a four years of hor- 
rible and cruel war. 

In no way can this be done better than by continuing these reunio]is. 
Count me. in for anj' duty assigned and rest assured that next tinH> I will 1h' 
there. Report me t4iis time "Ab.sent, but accounted for." 

As ever your Comrade from IHGl to IHfi."), 

ABNER DUNHAM, 
Company F, J 2th Iowa Infantry. 

Ma(iuketa, Aug. Kth, 1S94. 
J. E. Simpson: — 

Dear Sir : I will say that I. K. Crane received your circular inviting 
him to the reunion of the r3th at Sioux City, and he bids nie say to you that 
it will bo impossible for him to be there in the body as he can almost hear 
the last roll call. He has been sick all summer, and never will be able to 
march to the music of fife or drum in earth life more. Bat he will be with 
the boys in spirit, and if he should be freed from his suffering body will be 
with you in his spiritual body, free from all pain and suffering. He is suffer- 
ing from dropsy, brought on through rheumatism and heart trouble. His 
limbs have swollen until they are bursting, and he can hardly get hi? breath. 
Still he is cheerful and wishes the old 12th a good time, and if he has 
answered the last roll call on earth will be at your camp fire with you. He 
bids me say this for him, and I close hoping and wishing you a happy time. 
I subscribe myself, Your friend, his wife, 

MRS. I. K. CRANE. 

He says read to the boys if you wish. 

Dunkertou, October 5th, 1894. 
Dear Secretary and Comrade : — 

It is with deep regret that I sit down to inform you that I shall not be 
able to be with you and the boys at the reunion, and I regret it the more be- 
catise I fear it will be the last opportunity I shall have of meeting with com- 
rades. I am now nearly 72 years old. If I drew a pension as most of the 
boys do, I believe I should go, but times are too hard with me. Give my 
love to all of the boys of the noble old 13th Iowa. God bless you all. May 
you all have a good time together. Truly yours, 

A. B. PERRY, 
Company E, 12th Iowa. 

No. 11 Edward Street, Chicago, 111., Sept. 28, 1894. 
Dear Comrade Simpson :--- 

Comrade Weaver's circular per your favor came duly to hand. If I can 
go to Sioux City I will, but I am getting old and shaky now, and hesitate to 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 53 



trust myself in a prohibition state any more. I ■ hear the G. A. R. had a 
good time in Pittsburg. I didut go— couldn't get a vacation this year from 
the Chicago P. O., but one week from today lets me out. My resignation 
here takes effect October 1st. But times are hard and money close, and I 
may not be able to attend at Sioux City. I have been an employe in this P. 
O. since 1885, and am worn out. I shall go to the Soldiers' Home— not, per- 
haps, to Marshalltowu, but to Dayton, Ohio. I may be entitled at Marshall- 
town, but I was for years at the Dayton home, am on furlough from there 
now, and there is more going on there— printing office (I am a printer), 
theatre, church, etc., and six thousand inmates— see? I hope that the dear 
old boy's will have a good time at Sioux City, and with best wishes I reman, 

Your old comrade-in-arms, 

ALLEN M. BLANCHARD. 

Helena, Mont., Oct. 6th, 1894. 
Mr. E. B. Soper, Emmetsburg, Iowa:— 

My Dear Comrade: Your favor of September 38th .just received, and am 
sorry to say that it will be impossible for me to attend the reunion at Sioux 
City. I am just now engaged in mining matters requiring my undivided at- 
tention. Were it not for that I would surely be with you, as you say it has 
been nearly thirty years since we last met, and I assure you that it is my wish 
to meet yourself and old comrades with a Jaearty shake hands as soon as cir- 
cumstances will permit. Please remember me kindly to all comrades. My 
heart is with you if I cannot be. With the best of wishes, 

I remain yours truly, 

W. L. LEE. 



Columbus, Ohio, Sept. 22nd, 1894. 
Mr. J. E. Simpson:— 

Dear Comrade: I received your circular in regard to the reunion of the 
old 12th. I am so far away that it is pretty hard for me to attend the re- 
union Nothing would please me better than to shake the hand of every sur- 
viving member of Compnay I, and in fact of all the 12th. I will do my 
utmost towards reaching Sioux City by the 10th of next month. -To tell the 
truth of the matter I have been under the weather pretty bad lately, and my 
finance is low. I wish they had made it Dubuque or some town on the east 
side of the state. 

Please send me Sergeant Cotes' address. I know it is in South Dakota, 
but forgot the town. I am trying for an increase of pension. Cotes was 
wounded at Tupelo when I was. He and Bill Koehler and I were in Cahaha 
together. And please send Koehler' s address. I know it is Dubuque, but 
don't know the number or street. If .you know Capt. Sumbardo's address 
please send it also. I will send you a blank to lill out as to my health before 
I was wounded if you can remember me. . The youngest member of Com- 
pany I-the boy that had the preacher's suit, plug hat and all on the Tupelo 



54 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



ten, fifteen, and as high as twenty Union soldiers, and are so described in the 
Roll of Honor in tlie superintendent's ofHce The states having regimental 
groups are Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, Michigan, Indiana, Ohio and Kentucky, 
but soldiers from all these states and in all the regiments having groups are 
also scattered all over the cemetery in named and unnamed graves. Iowa h-JS 
three legimental groups, the Third, Twelfth and Thirteenth Iowa, each hav- 
inga group in semicircular form, the three semicircles joining each other, 
with the name of the regiment cut into a tall stone in the center of its semi- 
circle. The group of the 12th regiment is as follows; 

i2th Iowa: Nos. on the 21 graves, 4=5S to 475. Names, Lieut. J. D. Fergu- 
son, W. L. Paulley, T. H. Wilson, A. D. Campbell, Daniel Luther, J. P. Ayers, 
Ino. Hradfield, K. E. King. Thirteen unnamed graves. Eight more of the 
known graves of the i2lh are buried in section M., and others in other sections 

All sections of three of the regiments above have named graves scattered 
through the difierent'sectionsjn addition to the above groups. This indicates bad 
management on the part of tiie superintendent in charge at the time the bod- 
ies were removed; but he is dead now, his body is buried in the cemetery and 
this pencil never fights a dead man. It would have been much more convenient 
and satisfactory if each State's dead had been m one section and the section 
divided of! so far as possible into regimental groups. 

The following is a complete list of the '"known" dead of the 12th Iowa 
regiment interred at Shiloh cemetery, with company, date of death and place 
of original burial, so far as shown by the superintendent's books: 

Ayers, J. P. — D. 12th Iowa, Pittsburg Landing, Tenn. 

Bianchard, John D.— K. 12th Iowa. March 31, 1862, Savannah, Tenn. 

Bradfield, John — E. 12th Iowa, Sliiloh. 

Campbell, A. D. — F. 12th Iowa, Shiloh. 

Cooley, Archibald S.— 12th Iowa, April, 1862, Shiloh. 

Ferguson, Jason D., Lt. — D. 12th Iowa, Shiloh. 

Garrison, A. — F. 12th Iowa, Savannah, Tenn. 

House, Nathan — C. I2lh Iowa, April 6, 1862, Savannah, Tenn. 

King, Reuben D. — Co. A., April 6, 1862, Shiloh. 

Luther, Daniel, — Co. D., Shiloh. 

Moore, Solomon W. — Co. E.. March, 1862, Savannah, Tenn. 

Paulley, Wm. L. — E. 12th Iowa, Shiloh. 

Ricker, Jacob, — G. 12th Iowa, April 23 1862, Savannah, Tenn. 

Shinkle, Marion, — ^I. 12th Iowa, March 31, 1862, Savannah, Tenn. 

Wigton, Thos. J. — F. 12th Iowa, April 4, 1862, Savannah, Tenn. 

Wilson, Thos. H. — I. 12th Iowa, Shiloh. 

Herring, L. G. — G. 12th Iowa, Savannah, Tenn. 

In addition to the above, Iowa is known to be largely represented in the 
2,361 "unknown" graves. One-eighth of the known graves are those of brave 
Iowa soldiers and it is undoubtedly true that 300 to 500 more of the best and 
bravest men that Iowa sent to the war sleep in unknown graves in Shiloh cem- 
etery. This will be a sad letter to many Iowa homes when read over to find 
a trace of a father, brother, son or friend known to be killed at Shiloh. Know- 
ing the anxietv with which the list will be read over, great care was taken in 
copymg from the records to get it correct, and the list above given contains 
the name of every 12th Iowa soldier in "known" graves in Shiloh cemetery. 

The cemetery was begun in 1870, five years after the war was over. The 
first superintjudent was Maj. Peter )ako, who died in 1S70 and is buried in the 
cemetery. Each year thereafter until 1876, there was a new superintendent 
but no record was kept of their names. In September, 1876, Capt. L. S. Doo- 
little, of 96th Illinois, was appointed. He is still the superintendent and a first 
class man for the position. He receives a salary of feoo per annum and is fur- 
nished one employe at 130 per month. The government furnishes house, 
tools, fuel, stock, etc., everything except food and clothing for himself and 
family. He and his lady, formerly ^Iiss Anna White, of Milburn, Illinois, 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. ^c 



onSeS '; iSrr Lion' "n^ rijittorvTS^ ^° ^'^ ^[' '" ^r-h «^ ^he graves 
the cemetery was opened ThP^fif=7 '^°''-^ vvas kept for some time after 

only x8r nJ^Z^l^rl^r^glte^e^^^;^^^^^^^ N^'- H. 1870 and 

.tors registered up to evining ot AprU 7 isll saw 2 6T7 ^''' ""'"^''' °^ ^'^^- 

r^uJb'rStllcfn'Tdetrl^^^^^^^^^^^ ^-^ '^^-^^ "--'v the entire 

who were killed early inTh^da in tKrlf h - Tu ^^^P^ured, except those 
in "unknown" grave? The 8th "th and t^S' t ^^^'' ''"'P '^^''' ^^'' ^'^^P" 
were captured at the close of the firsfrl., •lJ°'^^ regiments, all of which 
by known graves in tt cemetery at^dthi' Tln'f ^"' ^"ghtly represented 
regiments. The dead of U.?4 re^i^ne.it were i^^. "!i ""' 'S ""l^'^' captured 
along the line of retreat vvhere fhP mL^l ,1 flattered on the hne of battle, 
efforts to break tK enenn's ifne^^^^^^^^ desperate stand in their 

continuous heaps across ''He "s Hoi ow " O ^.^^" ■'^"•■/'^""ded, and piled in 
of the dead, their comrades lef in re^impnf.l "^'"^ ^° 'fe scattered condition 
after the battle was over anV"th"'^^' ''^"^P"S°">d ^ 
trenches, hundreds in X'nrh^rso^dLrje^a^-ed-ro ^^^^S^ ^'-"- 

tured^'re'^rnVnTs'^JiLrwa's'"/^^ T^' ^'"^ ^^^^- '^ -- -^ ^he cap- 

after the^^tt le vtas ov^? and ?o \llT''u'^ ?^f",f'l'".^ ^^' ^^^^^ regiments 
given in all the pHnted reports on vfoth'^l^^ '^'"^^^ '"} !-'^°^^ regiments is 
In case of the i?th lovva t?e officia IrennVt • ""m"'" ^^^1^0""^ on the field, 
regiment as "10," whin it is SosTtilelv^L n ^'''f ^'f """^^^'^ «^ ^^^''^d in this 
were captured that^hrnumber of ki In T ^^^ regiment who 

ment was nearly one hundrpd r ^ "^ a"^ mortally wounded in this regi- 
mortally wou'ndJd? who'dfed'the n^eTda"? and'verv'f'^ seven killed and two 
caped death or wounds Comoanv A lo-^^A ^ ?^ °^ ^^'^ company es- 

regiment, but the loss to the ofher^o Jn "" "''^" *'?" ^"^ company in the 

tons but' it was too late to cSr ectTeX?nr'' "'7 'V^'^^,' ^^'^ '^ ^"-"^ ^is- 
releasedfrom the rebe prison he'?s and^^e nffl'^^i^'''' ""^'f' "',? ^'-^Pt^^ed were 
false reports as first mad^t^i" s SiUlht the h^. fj ''^^^''d^^till perpetuate the 
troops that held their orig nal linf o Ctfe .Tl H ^"' 7*^^ ^^'^ '^^ °"'y 
s.s.ance was all that saved^hJ intfre^arm W^:;;'de:t'r'uc?ion""°^^ ^^"''^°^" ^^- 

it saJin\t^rt\"n'd?a\ea^:aT wiS in^rS^^^^^ ^ro^I^ T'^^V ^^ ^^"^ ^° 
not lessened the love for the brave rnmr!^ k ■ ^^ Jwenty-two years had 
conquered and consecrated bv the bestTnH h ^"?^'^. ^^'^ '" ^ rebellious soil 
rificedhome, friends and life whhpro,--^ bravest of our number. They sac- 
country last in tLfr h^a' fa smile oT'rem^^^^^^^ ^^P^ 'V""''' 
last on their faces thev died wiih nf . '^ememb ance of loved ones at home 

died-for others ' f^^d^hey dTe ^vafn [Tt'hl^'h"^."' ^Tl' ^'^"^^ ^^^^^ 
five years answer. ^ ' ^""^ ^^"^ ^'^^ory of the next twenty- 

VVe left their silent and the o-rpatpcf r.Qr^ ,^f fu « , 
silence and unutterable sorrow bowed do^nw^fl ""'"r ""^nown" graves in 
press. No other nation in thrhktorv ni 11 ^^'^'l ^nef tins pencil cannot ex- 
riors, and no other nadon ever came son... '''''' "^ ^''"' ^'']? ,'"^'^ ""^le war- 
brave straggles, undying°3evotLn'"rd li "sa'cSf Ta?o '^Th^^ °' ^'^'^ 
Nation has proven tself imworth,- r^r e„^i ^"^"-["'^"'g: valor. 1 he American 

infamy and dishonor Even the mudd^' T'"" 'T'u '""n^ ^-"^"^^^ itself with 
wash the base of the r last ri int nlLce in 1 f ' """ Tennessee sluggishly 
toward the desolated homLTf nSr v all onr hn "'f^'^i^^, "°''thwest, and 
its banks, as if in wild n ockerv of the nh ''°"°''<^d ^^'1^ who are buried on 
from their shroudless coffinle^sJil J.. P^,^" °'" ^^Y. being unable to rise 
same direction. Oh the bi e?ne?s T.^ "1^^'' ^P their line of march in the 
and minds of theVr liv ng "oSes /^^ deep into the hearts 

graves. Language cannol e^xpSs it ?ho\iSt ?an,ot ?aU om t^ ' T°" ^'"'' 
hension cannot compass it P\-prv v^tP..,, cannot fathom it, and compre- 

in the green woods of Tennessee^hiSilpi'^of^^ ^'"""^ ^'^"^ ™"'^ -''^^e^ 
American people and more of fh f r ? °^ '"r ^"''^""""^^'^t, less of the 

fore. NoarmyofequaTintelil . ^'^^^^^"'"ess of republics than ever be- 



56 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



Who Saved the Day at Shi/oh. 

The following, written by Col. Geddes, and taken from the lozva 
^'/rt'/f^ /?^:»75/c;-. will be exceedingly interesting to members of the 
I2th and 14th Iowa: 

On the near approach of the twenty-third anniversary of the battle of Shi- 
loh I feel that the time has arrived when simple justice may be done the brave 
men who stood by their colors and country so heroically on that bloody day. 

For twenty-two years I, for one, have keenly lelt that the heroism of three 
devoted Iowa regiments has never been candidly acknowledged by the au- 
thorities, nor the far-reaching consequences of their patriotic devotion fully ap- 
preciated. 1 will therefore answer your question, "Who Conquered at Shiloh?" 
by staling without fear of contradiction, and with the opportune assistance from 
Confederate reports of that battle, now for the first time published by the War 
Department, that Iowa conquered at Shiloh ! 

How often have we recalled to our memories that timber-crested hill, so 
sacred to us all as the resting place of many a dear comrade, and soon to be 
visited again by some of the survivors, drawn as it were by some wierd and all- 
pervading influence to the spot, which for these many years they have longed 
to tread once more. 

These three Iowa regiments — the Eighth, Twelfth and Fourteenth — de- 
fended a position all that day of so much importance to our army, that had it 
been carried by the rebels, even as late as 3 o'clock in the afternoon, the high 
bluffs ol the Tennessee would not have had a Union soldier to siielter. 

Permit me to quote from the official reports of a few of the Confederate 
officers who, with their commands, engaged these three Iowa regiments, and 
who describe the position they held so vividly that most of our surviving com- 
rades who may read this cannot fail to recognize the historic spot. On page 
483, Vol. X: VVar of the Rebellion, Col. R. S. Gibson, commanding First Brig- 
ade, Ruggles' division, reports as follows : 

"The position alluded to was a densely wooded hill, surrounded by a ra- 
vine." Again, on page 480, he says: "The brigade moved forward in fine 
style, marching through an open field under a heavy fire, and half way up an 
elevation covered with an almost impenetrable thicket upon which the enemy 
was posted ; on the left was a battery opened that raked our flank, while a 
steady fire of musl;etry extended along the entire front. Under this combined 
fire our line was broken and the troops fell back, but they were soon rallied 
and advanced to the contest. Four times the position was charged and four 
times the assault proved unavailing. The strong and almost inaccessible posi- 
tion ot the enemy, his infantry well covered in ambush, and his artillery skill- 
fully posted and efficiently served, was found to be impregnable to infantry 
alone. We were repulsed." Again, on page 483, he continues : " I had sent 
Mr. Robert Pugh to the General after the first assault, for artillery, but the re- 
quest was not granted, and in place of it he brought nie orders to advance 
again on the enemy. In the execution of this order we charged repeatedly, as 
described, and were repulsed." 

In this connection I will quote from my own report, written in a rebel pris- 
on twenty-two years ago, and tound in the same document, on page 166 : 
"About I p. m- General Prentiss placed a battery in position immediately in 
front of my regiment. The precision of its fire, wliich was directed by the 
General in person, made great havoc in the advancing columns of the enemy. 
It therefore became an object of great importance to them to gain possession 
of the battery. To this end they concentrated, and hurled column after col- 
umn on my position, charging most gallantly to the muzzles of the guns." 

For the purpose of still further corroborating the rebel testimony, I quote 
from Col. W. T. Shaw's report, on pages 153-4, made after his return from 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. IMFANTRY. ^^ 



prison: "I now perceived a large force of the enemy approaching from the 
left and front, and immediately reported the fact to Col. Tiittle, who, at my re- 
quest, sent me a couple of brass six-pounders, which were nearby. These i 
got into position just in time to receive the enemy. They advanced with the 
most desperate bravery, the brunt of the attack falling upon the Eighth Iowa, 
by whom it was most gallently borne." 1 have good authority for saying that 
the firm resistance of the center at that time was the chief means of saving 
our whole army from destruction. 

In identifying the topography of this important position held by these 
three Iowa regiments, I would call attention to the report of Col. J. J. Woods, 
of the Twelfth Iowa, on page 151. With the precision of a trained officer he 
thus describes the position: "The Eighth Iowa was on the left of the Fourteenth, 
forming an angle to the rear with our line. An open field lay in front of our 
right. Dense timber covered our left, a small ravine immediately behind us. 
Again and again did he attack us. We repulsed every attack and drove him 
back in confusion." 

Now compare with the foregoing the report of Capt. E. M. Dubroca, com- 
manding the Thirteenth Louisiana Regiment of Col. Gibson's brigade, page 
491: "Our loss in crossing the field was very heavy. We were ordered to the 
right to charge the enemy, who were lying in ambush at the foot of the hill, 
entirely hidden from us by a dense undergrowth, which screened their posi- 
tion. 'There is a time when patience ceases to be a virtue.' We were forced 
to fall back and form anew. And a second and third time we returned to the 
charge, leaving on the field some of our brave soldiers." 

Also compare the report of Col. J. F. Fagan, commanding First Arkansas, 
Gibson's brigade, Ruggles' division, on page 488. He says: "It was about 
noon, the turnincr point of the day and the turning point of the battle. Upon 
the edge of a wheat, field, to the right of the field last mentioned, the regi- 
ment, with the whole brigade, was drawn up in line of battle, and marching 
directly to the front, across a field, entered a dense thicket of undergrowth, 
which led down to a ravine and a hill beyond. Here we engaged the enemy 
three different times, and braved a perfect rain of bullets, sliot and shell 
Three different times did we go into that valley of death, and as often were 
forced back." 

Sufficient, I think, has been stated to prove, beyond controversy, two im- 
portant facts. First, the position these three devoted regiments occupied du- 
ring the battle of the 6th of April, 1862, and the terrible character of the con- 
flict sustained. Much more can be gleaned from the rebel reports in further 
corroboration of these facts, but your precious space warns me to desist. I 
will only notice two important points. First, the time these three Iowa regi- 
ments were captured, and second, the result of their heroic resistance. How 
often have 6ur brave boys been pained on hearing the oft-repeated mean and 
flippant remark, "O, you were captured in the morning at Shiloh," and by many 
who never dared approach the foe near enough to be captured. What a leg- 
acy to a weeping wife when the news of the bloody conflict sped over the 
lines to our homes, "Your husband was taken prisoner with his regiment with- 
out fighting." The true state of the case could not be ascertained, lor no wit- 
ness was there but those concerned. 

In regard to the time of capture I will quote from the report of Col. B. L. 
Hodge, Nineteenth Louisiana Infantry, page 493: "Again we advanced into 
the little farm, and again when midway the clearing, the enemy opened fire 
upon us. Again we pressed on to the fence directly m front of his ambuscade. 
Here we remained exposed to his merciless fire for over half an hour. I may 
be permitted to add, sir, that this formidable position of the enemy, after Hav- 
ing withstood the repeated attacks of various regiments, was only carried at 
last by a charge on the right flank, supported by a battery on the left. After 
the enemy were driven from this stronghold, we, with several brigades, mov- 
ed toward the river. It was then nigh sunset." 



58 FIFTH REUTs'ION OF THE 

Cottage 9, Soldiers' Home. Quiucy, 111., Oct. 9. 1894. 
Mr. J. E. Simpson and 12th Iowa: — 

Dear Conirtides: I received your kind inviiation to attend the reunion 
the 10th to 12th iust. 

I am very sorry I can not meet with you. but it is not possible for me to 
atteud on account of my finances. My check will reach me too late to'at- 
teud the, reunion. I wi.sh yon all a good time. 

Truly our ranks in the 12th Iowa are thinning and we can have but a 
few more reunions here, but there is a time coming when we can have a 
grander reunion than any of these, if we all live as faithful to our God as we 
did for our country, and fight the good fight of faith, we will have one of the 
grandest reunions in heaven we have ever had. I am trying every day to 
live a christian, and as I cannot be with you I request you to take a vote of 
the boys aiid report to me the number that are trying to serve God and make 
their home in heaven, where all is peace and joy forever. Please do this for 
my pleasure at least. I want to say here that I have not spent my pen.sion at 
the saloon (God forbid), biat I have spent it in helping to build a United 
Brethren church in this city and for other benevolent purposes. I want you 
to know that I have not squandered my money as some of the boys have donr, 
in our home. 

We have thirty-eight boys in our cottage and eight of us are trying to 
fight the good fight of faith and gain a home in heaven. I trust the few 
that used to hold prayer meetings in the army are still attending and enjoying 
prayer meetings. If any have gone astray let them return as the prodiagal 
of old did. We then had to fight the euemy of our country and our soul too. 
Now we have to fight the enemy of our soul, and that is whisky. Thous- 
ands are going to ruin everj' day in Quincy. This is all. Write an tell me 
about the reunion. How many were there? Give me their addresses and I 
will write to them. Love to all, 

LAWRENCE LOTT 
To the 12th Iowa. 

Superior, Neb., Oct. 9, 1S94. 
Dear Comrades:--- 

I started to come to the reunion and got as far as Superior and I learned 
it would cost me full fare to come, and times are so hard and money so scarce 
that it is imiiossible for me to get there. I understood it was only half fare 
till I got to the depot. I am very sorry that I cannot be there. I .«!aw A. G. 
Davenport this morning and he said to send his re.spects to all the old boys, 
and we hope that the next time will be able to get there. 

PETER KEARNS, 
A. G. DAVENPORT 

Holmes City, Douglas .County. Mijin., Oct. 7th, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson. Norfolk, Neb. :— 

Dear Comrade: Your circular of Sept. 10 duly received. I have always had 



J 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 59 

an ardent desire to attend a reunion of the 12th Iowa, but the distance and 
financial circumstances always so far intervened. My jjersonal appearance 
can therefore not be with you only V)y letter of ref<i-et. 

Very truly, L. LEWIS, 

Late Co. I, 12th Iowa Infantry. 

Magnolia, O., Sept. 12, 1894. 
J. E. Sihip.son, E.sq., Norfolk, Neb. :--- 

Dear Sir and Comrade: It was with mingled feelings of pleasure and re- 
gret that I peru.sed your circular letter of invitation to attend the fifth reunion 
of the 12th Iowa Volunteer Infantry—pleasure that I was still held in re- 
membrance by my comrades-in-arms, and regret that circumstances would 
not permit me to be present with them on that occasion. I, as well as the 
rest of the one time "Boys in Blue," am getting old— too old to take so long 
a trip, much as I would love to meet once more those with whom I bore arms 
during tho.se trying years. But few more such privileges will be accorded 
us, but there will be a grand review beyond at which I trust we may all pass 
muster. 

Hoping that you who are present may enjoy the meeting to the fullest, I 
assure you that my thoughts will be with you. Yours fraternally, 

A. BROTHERS. 

Soldiers' Home. Hot Springs. S. D., Oct. 11, 1H94. 
J. E. Simpson :-- 

Cannot come to reunion; not able; my best wishes to you all.. 

EMERY CLARK. 

St. Edwards, Neb., Oct. 4th, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Neb. :--- 

Dear Comrade: It is with the deepest regret that this will have to substi- 
tute «iy personal attendance at this reunion of the 12th Iowa. 

I shall be with you in spirit and with my best wishes for the happiness 
of the comrades of the old 12th Iowa, hoping you will have a pleasant time. 
I will l)id you good bye until our next reianion. Yours truly, 

W. H. ELLISON, 
Company K, 12th Iowa V. V. I. 

Ponca, Oct. 9, 1894. 
Comrades of the 12th Iowa: — 

It is with the deepest feelings of regret that I write you of my inability 
to be present with you at this, your fifth reunion. I have anticipated great 
pleasure in meeting with you once more, but hard times presses me so 
closely, and not being a pensioner, I am unable to be present. My wife, who 
is a member of the Woman's Relief corps sends kind greetings and many re- 
grets, that she cannot l)e with you. 



6o SECOND REUNION OF THE 



COMPANY A. 

Armstrong, B. A Liscomb, Iowa. 

Bowers, I. H Eldora, Hardin Co., Iowa. 

Bird, G. M IH- 

Bell, Thos. R Iowa Falls, Iowa. 

Brother, A Arlington, Ohio. 

Brown, S. B Jewell City, Jewell Co., Kansas. 

Congar, J. D Eldora, Hardin Co., Iowa. 

Clarkson, R. P Des Moines, Polk Co., Iowa. 

Cromwell, T. C Oakland, Iowa. 

Combes, E. C Dewalls Bluff, Ark. 

Cobb, G. H Eldora, Hardin Co, Iowa- 
Crist, Job Marshalltown, Iowa. 

Dobbins, Hiram Jewell Co., Kan. 

Dobbins, Levi Eldora, Hardin Co., Iowa. 

Edgington, S. R Eldora, Hardin Co , Iowa. 

Edgington, T. B No. i8 Madison St.. Memphis, Tenn. 

Ellsworth, D. V Eldora, Hardin Co., Iowa. 

Fountain, Francis 

Glass, Carl Dayton, (Mill Home,) Ohio. 

Haskins, G. H Marysville, Mo. 

Haywood, W. P Lyons, Iowa. 

Hunter, J. R. C Webster City, Iowa. 

Hobbs, Jas. C. H Peru, Nemaha Co., Neb. 

Iback, B. F Eldora, Hardin Co., Iowa. 

Jackson, Sam'l Oregon. 

Kidwiler, M Mo. 

Kemp, Sumner Alden, Iowa. 

Kellogg, R. E Alden, Iowa. 

Lefever, Simon Bolekow, Mo. 

Macy, Seth Des Moines, Iowa. 

McPherson, W. G 

Moore, G. W Maryville, Mo. 

Moore, W. W Manchester, Del. Co., Iowa. 

Miller, Zabina 

Mann, William .Steamboat Rock , Hardin Co., Iowa. 

Mitchell, G. W Lawn Hill, Iowa, 

Martin, D. S Iowa Falls, Iowa. 

Parish, Wm 

Richards, Wm 

Reed, G. W Yarkie, Mo. 

Runkle, CM Plankenton, Dak. 

Rulo G. W South Bend. Ind. 

Richards, Joseph Boone, Iowa. 

Sprague, K. S Fremont, Neb. 

Sawin, E. S Union, Iowa. 

Wilson, T. H Iowa Falls, Iowa. 

Waiker. Sam'l Dewitt, Carroll Co., Mo. 

Welsh, Nathan 

Wickam, A. J Eag'e City, Iowa. 

Webb A. E Eldora, Hardin Co. Iowa: 

Zieger |. W Eldora, Hardin Co., Iowa. 

Zieger] N- W Eldora, Hardin Co., Iowa. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. ^j 



COMPANY B. 

Andrews, H. R vtr ^ tt • 

r, ' , „ West Union, Iowa. 

Beurce, Corp. L. B ^7 r- ^ 

Pofu D ul Castane, Iowa 

Bathen, Robt d n t 

Tj ^ r- i,r , T. Kossville, Iowa 

Bort, Com. Wesley B ^r- 

r, ,T- J ^ Viroqun. Wis 

Borgee, ist Lieut. J. B. . . .supposed to be dead, Salt C'k P O Ills 

Baily.Geo.N ^'' \ ' 

Bo.-il MiT t:- St. Paul, Minn 

Bailey, W. F Cf u i n^, 

Bort, James n^edV? '?"" 

Bort, A, K Died m Lansing, Iowa 

Cole, 2d Lt. J. D.' .;.■.■. Decorah,Iovva 

T-,^ 1 A. Lansing, Iowa 

Decker, Adam , ■ \ 

T^^^ ^ ,. ■ ■ ■■ : Lansing, Iowa 

Deeny, Cornehes Died at SoldierlHome, Milwaukee Wis 

^7:"^'-[^,^" French Creek, iowa 

Dowling, Thos d •,, t 

T7^.i^ ^ , ,., ^ Rossville, Iowa 

Larle, Capt. W. C ^%r , t 

rr lu ^ T,, , Waukon, Iowa 

Engelhorn, Corp. Matthew J 

rrni r- Kansas 

Lttle, Geo ,,, , 

j:- . t:, . vVaukon, Iowa 

Encion, E. A --, , ^ 

T^, TT r, Crlenwood, Dak 

rry, Henry B 

Ferguson, Bradnor ^ 

Goodykoontz D. F 

Hulstis, Jos. H ur^tJJ -ii t 

Hansom, Capt. W.R Waterv.lle. k.wa 

l^rJ^'if^v,'?''''''^' •'•'Preston.ML 

Isted, Ibach F ivt;i , „,. 

T T' J Milwaukee Wi'; 

Iverson, knud t "^^c, vvis 

wk, serg. George ;::::::::::::;::::::;::::;:;:L^-^§; J51- 

In ",^''\^-^°' Village Creek, Iowa 

klees, Frank Rossville " 

Larsen,Aslak r, ^ ',,. 

n/r n K u u Preston, Minn 

McCabe, Hugh ixr 1 r 

,, ^ . ' ^ Waukon, Iowa 

McGuirn, Bryan r- 

,, , TJ- , Freeport, I s 

Monk, Fred r-» , ,. 

.. ^,.\ , T Litzen, Minn 

McClintock, Tames n -n t 

Ogan,C.C. Rossville, owa 

Pratt, Marcellus H ^Sibley, owa 

Pratt, R.C '.■ Waukon, owa 

r, c AT • Auu • T Waukon, Iowa 

Rogers, Serg. Maj. Altheris J \xt ^ 

r> ^ ,,Vu Waukon, Iowa 

Russell Chas r. ,, 

c ^ r>- u ^ r, Brooklyn, Mo 

Sargent, Richard B ,, -^ ', 

Sjodin, Peter Kansas, Kan 

Sanner, Mick F p ■■■■,;• -^'^^ 

Spaulding, Josiah D Rossville, 

S"!;^' ^- ^; • • ;• ■■•■•■N^K-lh McG;egor; K 

Thibedo, Stephen „, f 

TT , c- T u Waukon, " 

Upstrom, Serg. John \\r,^^tu- .. »»• 

\yj 1 dL Worthington, Minn 

Wampler, Robt -iir 1 

1X7- * c xxr D VVaukon, Iowa 

Winter, Serg. W. P -, 

White, Elisha J Algona, Iowa 

Winter, Rufus B •....'.".'.'.'.'.' .< 

Woodmanon, Isaac d -iV ' t 

Kossville, Iowa 



62 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



COMPANY C. 

Capt. Wm. W Warner, died Memphis, Tenn., Dec. 12, 1863. 

Capt. Geo. W. Cook Medicine Lodge, Kan. 

Capt. David W. Reed, (Mrijor i2tii Iowa) Waukon, Iowa 

Capt. Wm. L Henderson, Leroy, Minn 

ist Lt. David B. Henderson, (Col. 46th Iowa) Dubuque, Iowa 

ist Lt. Henry J. Grannis Fayette, Iowa 

2d Lt. Aaron M.Smith, died South Bend, Ind., Jan. ist, 1883 

ist Sergt.JerF. Hutchins, (Capt. Co- E. 12 la.) . ..Minneapolis, Minn. 

Sergt. Gilbert Hazlett, Allison, Iowa 

Sergt. Emery Clark, Estelline, Dak 

Sergt. Jas. Stewart, West Union, Iowa 

Sergt. Phineas R. Ketchem, Windsor, Iowa 

Sergt. Philo R. Woods, Fayette, Iowa 

Sergt. Frank W. Moine, Strawberry Point, Iowa 

Corp. David Connor, died of wounds, Nashville Jan. 5, 1865 

Corp. Thomas Henderson, killed Shiloh, April 6, 1862 

Corp. Sam'l. F. Brush, died Macon, Ga., Oct. 31, 1862 

Corp. Geo. L. Durno, Springville, Iowa 

Corp. Jas. Barr,(Asst. Surg. 12th Iowa) Algona, Iowa 

Corp. Daniel D. Warner, died Macon, Ga., Sept. 10, 1862 

Corp. John W. Bysong West Point, Neb 

Corp. Joseph D. Baker Montivedo, Minn 

Corp. Geo. E. Comstock : Manchester, Iowa 

Corp. Henry C.Curtis, Lemars, Iowa 

Corp, John A. Delezene, Rock Rapids, Minn 

Corp. Wm. H. Jordan Cheney, Wash. Ter 

Corp. Amos K. Ketchum, Clarion, Iowa 

Corp. John E. Kent, Olewein, Iowa 

Corp. Wilson King, Emerick, Neb 

Musician Sumner Hartshorn died in Mich- 
Abbott Edward J (Rover, no permanent residence) 

Ayers, James L died Macon, Ga. Oct. 3. '62 

Adams, Edward died Fayette, Iowa, Dec. 20, '71 

Beck, Sam'l C Waverly Iowa 

Blanchard, S- S died Postville, Iowa 

Ballinger, John W Lacey, Iowa 

Brown Albert re-enlisted in 9th Iowa Cavalry, killed by 

accident at Hickory Plain, Ark. Dec. 24th, '64 

Brown, John T 

Brown, Geo Woodstock, 111 

Burroughs, Geo. A Douglass, Iowa 

Bowers, Wm. H Limestoneville, Pa 

Barton, Alvah H 

Baker, Miles died Nov. 19, '67, Eden Iowa 

Bushn'ell, Abner C died Pueblo, Col. Jan. '82 

Beadle, Henry ...died Macon, Ga. Aug. 9, 62 

Brown, Addison L deserted from Selma Ala 

Barr Henry Tama Co., Iowa 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 63 



Becktell, David T Volga City, Iowa 

Barnes, James (Transfer from 27) 

Brant. Allen (Transfer from 27) Fairbanks Iowa 

Benjamin, Nathan (drafted) 

Bennefield, Wm. (substitute) 

Browsley, Wm. (drafted) 

Chase, Thos. H died St. Louis, March 28, '62 

Clark, Henry Melbourne, Iowa 

Connor, Felix died St. Louis, Jan 14, '62 

Connor, Sam'l Maxwell, Iowa 

Connor, Daniel died St. Louis, Mo. Jan. 14, '62 

Card, Silas B 

Crossman, Silas died Elgin, Iowa April 14, 1881 

Clawson, Elijah died St. Louis, Mo. Tan. 10, '62 

Carmichail, Jas. H Volga City, Iowa 

Carrington, Chas Mitchell Co 

Comstock, Frank St. Louis, Mo 

Canfield, Theron P. (27th Iowa) Buffalo Grove, Iowa 

Davis, Jay C Wisconsin 

Davis, Andrew J Berian Springs, Mich 

Delezene, Benj Republic City, Neb 

Dawson, John (27th Iowa) 

Forbes, David 

Forbes, William died St. Louis, Jan. 2, '62 

Grannis, Geo. W Missing at Shiloh, never heard from 

George, Henry died of wounds Md. City, May 2, '62 

Gifford, Simeon Auburn, Iowa 

Gillam, Ezekel D. (27th Iowa) 

Hood, Alonzo F died St. Louis, Jan. 31, 62 

Hazlett, John B Howard, Dakota 

Hamlin, Wm. A Plymouth, Iowa 

House, Nathan died Savannah, Tenn. April '62 

Hill, John W 

Hill, Benj. J. (drafted) 

Hendershot, Thos Plainview, Neb 

Henkee, Martin (drafted). , ..- died Memphis, April 17, '64 

Henselbecker, Henry (drafted) Bluffton, Iowa 

Hamlin, Lyman S Fairbanks, Iowa 

Hinkel, Edward C. (drafted) Winfield, Iowa 

Husted, Jacob M 

Henderson, James A. (27th Iowa) Cherokee, Iowa 

Jordan, Isadore L Bull City, Kansas 

Jaques, Luther Fairbanks, Iowa 

Jones, Henry died St. Louis, Jan. 17, '62 

Jones, Geo. M. (drafted) 

Jordan, Daniel M killed Rockdale, Texas, Nov. 10, i88i 

Jewell, Jas E. (27th Iowa) 

Jackway, G. H- (27th lowa^ Lament, Iowa 

Kelley, Artemas ■ ■ ' ■ 



64 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



Kent, Wm- A Dallas, Wis 

Kelsey, E. A Tripoli, Iowa 

Lewis, Leroy died St. Louis, Jan. 3d, 1863 

Lattimer, Robt. Z Fayette Iowa 

Lattimer, Geo- H . Mill, Iowa 

Larson, Chas killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862 

Lyons, Wm. A West Union, Iowa 

Little, Jas 

Lot t, Lawrence Kampeska, Dak 

Munger, Albert P Cowlitz, Wash. Ter 

Mattocks, Jason L Minneapolis, Minn 

McCall, Daniel E Culver, Kansas 

McCall, John W Brownville, Neb 

Mclntyre, Thos. J died Vicksburg. Feby. 26th, 1865 

Mattocks, Ross Wadena, Iowa 

McElvain, John died McLeansboro, 111 • 

Muchmor^, Stephen D. (27th) 

Martin, Chas. I. (27th ) Tripoli, Iowa 

Pendleton, Chas. E killed Shiloh, Apr. 6, 1862 

Patterson, Sam'l. W (27th) 

Proctor, Geo. W (27th) Lawrens, Iowa 

Pitts, lames (drafted) London, Kan 

Prichet, John L. (drafted) 

Quivey, Wm. W Humboldt, Iowa 

Quivey, John died Oct. 4, 1862, Macon, Ga 

Russell, Granville died Feby- 17, 1862, St. Louis, Mo 

Rodgers, Reuben F Waucoma, Iowa 

Rodolph, John J • • • ■ - • 

Rockwell, Wm. R. (drafted) 

Spears, Niles H Mill, Iowa 

Simar, Willard E died Macon, Ga., Oct. 10, 1862 

Smith, Jacob R 

Smith, Norton T killed Vicksburg, May 22d, 1862 

Smith, Henry C died May 3d, 1863, Millekins Bd. La 

Siegman, Charles died Anapolis, Ma., Oct. 27, 1862 

Stone, Sam'l : died Anapolis, Ma., Oct. 3d, 1862 

Stone, Daniel Waucoma, Iowa 

Sykes, Orvis Freeport, 111 

Spears, Daniel H died Sedalia, Mo., Nov. 12, 1864 

Sherbone, Daniel 

Strong, John P Schuyler, Neb 

Sprowls, John 

Saulsbury, John 

Tatro, August Clermont, Iowa 

Utter, Albert Sycamore, III 

Verdin, Isaiah 

Williams, Rodolphus. . . West Lhiion, Iowa 

Wallace, Charles died July 9, 1863, Hospt. Boat 

Warner, Walter B Clermont, Iowa 

Wait, Van Buren deserted St. Louis, April, 1863 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 65 



COMPANY D. 

Stibbs, John H Room 92, Govt. Building, Chicago, 111. 

Soper, E. B Emmetsburg, Iowa. 

Prescott, T. L. 1123 Lexington Ave, corner S. W. Ave., Chicago, 111. 

Avers, Lyman M Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Buttolph, Edwin A Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Baumgardner, William Scranton, Iowa. 

Biirch, Sylvester R Olathe, Kansas. 

Bailey, Edwin H Fredonia, Wilson Co., Kan. 

Bailey, Henry W Kirkeman, Shelby Co., Iowa. 

Blanchard, Allen M. . .Room 58, 171 E. Randolph street, Chicago, 111. 

Barr, Thomas Shellsburgh, Iowa. 

Burch, John W Olathe, Kansas. 

Blood, Alvarro C , 

Brown, Angus, M 

Clark, John M Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Conley, Dennis Davenport, Iowa. 

Cowell, James L Marengo, Columbia Co., Washington Ter. 

Clark, Chas. W Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Curren, Francis Marion, Iowa. 

Clark, Isaac G Dennison, Iowa. 

Cowell, Robert C Guthrie Center, Iowa. 

Clemans, Nick, alias Chas. Ransom Smith Center, Kansas. 

Dailey , James C Cherokee, Iowa. 

DuBois, Ferdinand Denison, Iowa. 

Ellgen, Harmon Grafton, Worth Co., Iowa. 

Ferner, James D Nevada, Iowa. 

Flint, Samuel H No. 2, S. 3d Ave, Leavenworth, Kansas. 

Gephart, Perry Chicago, 111. 

Grass, Harmon Fargo, Dak. Ter. 

Gallagher, James Crete. Neb. 

Howard, William C Chelsea, Iowa. 

Hale, Neil Tucson, Arizona. 

Holler, Irdill W 

Johnson, Robinson L Bayard, Iowa. 

K^ing. Eli Washington, Kan. 

Lanagan, James Odel, Gage Co., Neb. 

Luther, John St. Joseph, Mo. 

Lewis, Thos. J Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Lee, W m . L 

Lambert, John B 

Little, James H 

Martin, Richard S 

Mclntyre Alpheus 

Moorehead, Chas. L Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Millett, Allen J Hastings, Neb. 

Morrow, B. Prank Almena, Kansas. 

Maryatt, O. H Red Cloud, Neb. 

Minor, David W Areata, Humboldt Co., Cal. 

Moorhead, Homer C , Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 



66 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

Price, Nathan G Jewell City, Kansas. 

Price, J. V. George Mountain Grove, Wright Co., Mo. 

Pangborn, Howard Palouse, Whitman Co.. Washington Ter. 

Rowan, John W Vinton, Iowa. 

Ross, Henry W Red Cloud, Neb. 

Renchin, Frank Bloomington Prairie, Minn. 

Ross, Jesse H Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Steadman, Diidly E Vinton, Iowa. 

Scott, Josiah Shellsburgh, Iowa. 

Soper, Roswell K Estherville, Iowa. 

Sartwell, Joseph O Marion, Iowa. 

Steward, Aaron A Carthage, Mo. 

Sivets, Daniel 

Tarpenning, James M South Bend, Neb. 

Thompson, Frank D Nevada, Iowa. 

Trowbridge, Wm H 701 S. E. 5th street, Des Moines, Iowa. 

VenEmman, Wm. M Grand View, Douglass Co., Dak. Ter. 

Whittam, John J care J. N. Whittam, Cedar Rap. Iowa. 

Wagner, Jasper Center Point, Iowa. 

Whiteneck, W. W Waterloo, Iowa. 

Weaver, John N Algona, Iowa. 

Zuver, B. P Adams, Gage Co., Neb. 

Stibbs, Joseph. . .died July i6th, 1S66, at Woocter, Ohio, of abscess of 
back contracted in rebel prisons 

Blackburn, Joseph M. .died April 20, 1S62, near Shellsburg, Iowa, of 
desease on account of which discharged 

Breman, Patrick . .died Sept. 17th, 1873, at Hot Springs, Arkansas, of 
disease of lungs and liver 

Craft, James died July 3d, 1S63, of disease on account of which dis- 
charged. 

Baumgardner, Samuel died June, 1S77, at Vinton, la, of consumption 

Doolittle, Washington A. died July 21, 18S0, at Watkins, Benton Co., 
Iowa, of Bright's desease, resulting from chronic diarhea and 
lung difficulty 

Doleshall, Wencil. died Aug. 31, 1873, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa 

Frees, James P. . .died April 5, 1S62, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, of pneu- 
monia 

Frees, Andrew J. killed June 30, 1873, at Cedar Rapids, by B. C. R. i!v: 
N. Ry. Cars 

Gilchrist, Wm. B. .died at Shellsburg, Iowa, ot disease on account of 
which he was discharged 

Lutz, Wm. B. .died Oct. 31st, 1S77, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, of old age 
and general debility 

Martin, EbenezerJB. .died Dec. 28th, 1S68, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, of 

consumption 

Note. — Any one knowing the addresses of those not given, or of their 
death, will confer a favor on Co. D., by addressing E. B. Soper, Emmets- 
burg, Iowa. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 67 

COMPANY E. 

Boone, R. G Scott, Mahaska County, Iowa 

Biller, Anthony Waterloo, " 

Beckwith, VV. H Parkersburg, Iowa 

Boylan, Thos Stocton, Brooks County, Kansas 

Bird, E Winterset, Madison county, Iowa 

Bird, R. L Maysville " 

Belton, James Edgewood, Clayton county, " 

Collins, Chas. P Charles City, Floyd county, " 

Cook, Charles Lester, Blackhaw.k county, " 

Creighton, David Geneva, Franklin county, ' " 

Crowhurst, Seth J Salem, McCook county, Dakota 

Cook, Joseph New Castle, Dixon county, Nebraska 

Cook, John J No. 31S South 4th St., E. D. Brooklyn.N. Y 

Cook, Adolph 

Coon, H. F... died Oct. 1884, Waterloo, Iowa 

Church, Nathan Webster City or Eagle Grove, " 

Demoss, Thos Bristow, Butler county, " 

Ellvvell, John 4340 Emeret Ave. Chicago 

Eberhart, Ben LaPorte City, Blackhawk county, Iowa 

Early, T. M Bristow, Butler county, " 

Graham, Jacob Davenport, Scott county, Iowa 

Hamilton, Wm LaPorte City, Black Hawk county, " 

Hayward, C. B... Dysart, Tama county, " 

Harrison, H.J Interior Department, Washington, D. C 

Jones, John C. Geneva, Franklin county, Iowa 

Large, F. A LaPorte City, Black Hawk county, Iowa 

Myers, A. W Shell Rock, Butler county, Iowa 

Margret, J. S Hittesville, Butler county " 

Morris, C. D Worthing, Dakota 

Minium, David..... Big Grove, Pottawatamie county, Iowa 

McCall, Daniel Culver, Ottowa county, Kansas 

Ochs, Charles Ackley, Hardin county, Iowa 

Perry, A. B Lester, Black Hawk county, Iowa 

Reed, Zeff. Fredonia, Louisa county, Iowa 

Rich, J. W Vinton, Benton county, " 

Surfus, C. V Bristow, Butler ..county, Iowa 

Stewart, Joal A Oregon City, Oregon 

Sunderhn, M. V. B Janesville, Bremer county, Iowa 

Seeber, G. L Sabula, Jackson county, " 

Schrack, David Lester, Black Hawk county, " 

Switzer, C. R Lewis, Cass county, " 

Sharp, Oliver Finchford, Blackhawk county, " 

Smith, Harvey Waterloo, Black Hawk county, " 

Sawyer, E Enterprise, Black Hawk county, " 

Shumaker, JohnW .Waterloo, Black Hawk county " 

Shroyer, Nathaniel Tainter, Mahaska county, " 

Strong, Ezra Sioux City, Plymouth county, " 

Talbot, Allen E Orleans, Indiana 

Williams, (Capt,) Robt Van Couver, Washington Ter 

Watkins, Isaac Crawfordsville, Montgomery county, Indiana 

Wesi-, D. F ...Theon, Wash. Ter 



68 SECOND REUNION OF THE 



COMPANY F. 

Ainsworth, J. E Missouri Valley Junction, Iowa 

Annis, Geo. W Lanark, Carroll county, 111 

Bremner, John Yankton. Yankton county, Dakota 

Buckman, Wm. H Dyersville, Dubuque county, Iowa 

Brown, Eugene Brush Creek, Fayette county, " 

Correll, Ed Greeley, Delaware county, " 

Coolidge, F. W Rawlins, Wyoming Ter 

Coolidge, O. E Central City, Nebraska 

Dunham, Abner Manchester, Delaware county, Iowa 

Dahl, John A Silver Creek, " 

Eldridge, J. E Hepler, Crawford county, Kan 

Eldridge, R. C Niagara Falls, N. Y 

Eaton, John J Edgewood, Clayton county, Iowa 

French, S. M Denver, Colorado 

Girton, Jos. S Hazleton, Buchanan county, Iowa 

Goodell, Wm. H : Manchester, Delaware county, " 

Gift, J. W Peoria, III 

Grice, A. J Doniphon, Hall county. Neb 

Hallhill, Josiah Wood Center, Clayton county, Iowa 

Hasbrouck, Daniel H Prairie Creek, Union county, Oregon 

Kaltenbach, Sam'l Manchester, Delaware county, Iowa 

Kaltenbach, L. P San Bernardino, California 

Kent, George Olewein, Iowa 

Kaster Hiram Manchester, Clayton county " 

Kirchner, Mike 

Lee, Jas. F Clay Mills, Jones county, Iowa 

Lee', John F Council Grove, Morris county, Kansas 

McGowan, Thos Independence, Buchanan, county, Iowa 

Mackey, H. W Maynard, " 

Manning. A L Dunlap, Harrison county, " 

McKee, T. R Blunt, Dakota 

Manley, R. L ' 

Mann, Wm. W Ranelsburg, Hall connty. Neb 

Nelson, W. A. W Hazleton, Buchanan county, Iowa 

Nelson, T. C Hazleton, Buchanan county, " 

Otis, John Sr Manchester, Delaware county, " 

Preston, H. M Ft. Dodge, Webster county, " 

Potter, Jas- W Fayette, Fayette county, " 

Peasley, R. H Kansas 

Ralston, Nelson Lamars, Plymouth county, Iowa 

Roe, A.J Burlington, " 

Small, H.J. F 452 SoWood St., Chicago, 111 

Steen, C C Minneapolis, Ottowa county, Kansas 

Schneider, Justus Rosewell, Miner county Dak 

Stribling, C C Clifton, Tenn 

Tirrell, R. W Manchester, Delaware county, Iowa 

Thorn, Chris Waverly, Bremer county, " 

Tibbetts, W. F Cheney, Sedgwick county, Kansas 

Weeden, R. L Nugents Grove, Linn county, Iowa 

Widger, Joshua Manchester, Delaware county, " 

Wooldridge, Geo. W Elkport, Clayton county, " 

Wandall, A Volga City, Clayton county, " 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



69 



COMPANY G. 



C. C. Tapper, died Benton Barracks, Jan., '62 
L. 1). Townsley. Mapiiui Dnvango, Mexico 
J. F. Nickersoii. died in rebel prison. 
J. E. Suiipson, Dubuque. Iowa. 
A. A. Burdick, killed at Tupelo. 
A. E. Anderson, Calmar, Iowa. 
O. C. Tliorson,died at Eldorado, Iowa. 
R A. Gibson, diedU. S.service. 
J. H. Womeldorf, Neleigh, Neb. 
Andrus, E. V.Decorah, Iowa. 
Anderson, A. Albert I^ea, Minn. 
Anderson, G. Kothsay, Minn, 
Anderson, A. M., died of wounds ree'd Cor- 
inth. 
Brown, J. H. died at Decorali. 
Bowers, A., died in Oliio, 
Crane, John 
Crowell, J. M. 

Connolly. C. died at Sonierville, Mass. 
Christophereon, C Hartland, Minn. 
Dunn, Van R, Dewitt, Neb. 
Engbertson, E. 
Eastonson, (i, died at Mound City, Iowa. 

Fuller, A. S. Lyons, Dakota. 
Fuller, A 

Green, L. D. 

(Jilbertson, O. Benton, Minn. 

Gulbranson, A. Rothsay, Minn. 

Hanson, Ole 

Hulverson, A. Decorah, Iowa. 

Hall, Giles 

Houge, G. A. Albert Lea, Minn. 

Hanson, Hans. Lake Park, Minn. 

Hanson, Halver, Sheldon, Dakota. 

Johnson, H. E. Alexandre, Minn. 

Johnson, Henry 1st. died at Huntsville, '62. 

Johnson, Henry 2d. 

Kittleson, C, B. died in Minn, 

Kittleson, G. 

Larson, Hover, died at Savannah, Tenn. 

liarson, John 

Man son, J. 

Montgomery, Wni. V. 

Madinn. D, L. 

Malonev. J. died in field. 

Miller, S. lives in California. 

McCabe, C. Sherburne, Minn 

Nass, G. H. Woodside, Iowa. 

Oleson, O. 

Oleson, O. G. killed at Shiloh. 

Oleson, J. died at Tlioton, Iowa. 

Pollock, Joseph, mustered out at Selma, '65. 
Pierce, Fletcher 

Romberg, L. O.died at Chewalla, "64. 
Ricker, J. died at Savannah, '62, 
Raucha, Fred. Skidmore, Mo. 

Smith, I. K. Baraboo, Wis. 
Simmons, R Lake Park, Minn. 
Staples. C. J. died at Frankville, Iowa. 
Steen, John, Wahoo, Neb. 
Steen, Henry, Oakland, Neb. 
Smith, G. M. died at Decorah, Iowa. 
Sernsou, S. A. killed at Tujjelo, '64. 

Tinke., J. 

Thompson, A. K. 

Taylor. W. H. H. 

Thompson, J. B., Speilville, Iowa. 

Wright, C. F. 
Wheeler, Horace. 
Wait, W. Nashua, Iowa. 



G. O. Hanson, died at Decorah. 
W. L. Winsor, Clinton, Mo. 
T. Steen, died at Omaha. 
A. W. Erit, died in service. 
J. O. .Johnson, Mabel, Minn. 
N. B. Burdick, died at Decorah. 
R. Hard, 
G. W. Sharp, Fargo, Dakota. 

Aker, D. O., Ridge way, Iowa. 
Anderson, Peter 
Anderson, E. 



Ballard, S.trawder 

Clark, J. M. 

Cutlip, J. 

Coon, C. A. Sabinal, Texas. 

Carey, A. A. died at Castalia, Iowa. 

Davis, N. J. Berrian Springs, Mich. 

Ellsworth, W, D. died in Benton Barracks. 

Fladmark, S. M. M, 

Gorhamer, O. H. died at St. Louis, '63. 
Gilbert, L. died at Keokuk. 

Han.son, Claus 

Hall, Austin, died at St. Louis, '63, 

Helgerson, (i. died at Nashville, '64. 

Harris, F. W. 

Hand, Andrew J. 

Jenson, A. died Sept. '63 in Miss. 
Johnson, A. died at Greensville, La., '65. 
Johnson, N. O. 
Kirkland, G. W. Freeport, Iowa. 

Larson, Peter 
Low, Lewis L. 

McCalley, P. died at Hesper. 

McLoud. S. 

Miller, O. D. Stuart, Neb. 

Meyer, C. 

Meader, M. E. Hesper, Iowa. 

Moe, Peter 

Nelson, Swen 

Oleson, E. 

Oleson, Amnion, died at Memphis. 

Oleson, A. H. 

Palmer, R. lives in Neb. 

Peterson, N. died at Camp Woods, '63, 

Raucha, Ed. 

Rocksvold. O, P. Thoten, Iowa. 

Ryerson, F, 

Skinner, C. died '63, steamer Crescent. 

Skinner, F. Forest City. 

Simmison, Nels. 

Severson, Nels. 

Stalim, Lars. L. 

Simmons, .lohn. 

Slattery, Thomas. 

Thompson, T., Lincoln Center, Kansas. 
Torgenston, M. died '65, at Montgomery. 
Tobiason, Andrew. 
Thoryson, Andrew. 

Wold, L. T., died at Vicksburg, '63. 
West, S., Red Cloud, Neb. 
Wiley, Win., died at St. Louis, 'C3. 



70 SECOND REUNION OF THE 

COMPANY H. 

Atkinson. VV. L. C Omaha, Neb 

Briggs, U. I . . Marcus, Iowa 

Brown, Tom Jewell City. Kansas 

lienedict, R. W Jessup, Iowa 

Becket, Ed Dubuque, Iowa 

Benedict, John VV Plum Creek; Neb 

Carrie, John G Bulte City, Montana 

Crist, lohn VV Central City, Dak. Ter 

Clark, B. A Colesburg, Iowa 

Crosby, J. M Pukwana, Brule county. Dak 

Co.x, VV. U ■• Alta, Buena Vista county, Iowa 

Duncan, N. E Kansas City, Mo 

Evans, James Dubuque, Iowa 

Fishel, S. C Iowa Falls, Iowa 

Fishel, S. K Eort McGinnis, Montana 

Fishel, Robt Greeley, Iowa 

Franks, Joseph Lamont, Iowa 

Flenniken, J. B 'battle Creek, Neb 

Grimes, R. M Kearney, Neb 

Gilmore, A. C Indianapolis, Ind 

Costing, Alfred G Strawberry Point, Iowa 

Horner, Geo Dubuque, Iowa 

Hamblin, R. E Arcadia, Ohio 

Henry, Philip Greeley, Iowa 

Jackson, S. M Lincoln, Neb 

King, Wilson Emerick, Neb 

Kuhnes, j. C Manning, Iowa 

Knee, Sam'l G • Colesburg, Iowa 

Light, Robt • Bernett, Neb 

Light, Joseph North Fork, Neb 

Langslou, Aaron I. .transfered irom Co. D 27th la to Co. D 12 Iowa 

Mason, John S Worthington, Iowa 

Moreland, C.D.W Earlville, Iowa 

McConnell, Alex S Hopkinton, Iowa 

McCune, W. U Emmetsburg, Iowa 

Nawman, Geo North Piatt, Neb 

Playter, H.J Washington, D. C. 

Smith, Thomas Turkey River, Iowa 

Shorter, James Shell Rock, Iowa 

Sloan, S. B Greeley, Iowa 

Trumble, James Manchester, Iowa 

Winch, Edward. Arena, Wis 

Wisegarber, Wm Oneil City, Neb 

Ward, John Burlington, Iowa 

Van Anda, John Fremont, Neb 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 7 1 



COMPANY I. 
Brown, J 

Crane, I. K • Maquoketa, Jackson Co., Iowa 

Coates, Joseph Warren Dakota 

Campbell, E. B Armstrong, Grove Co , Iowa. 

Davenport, A. S Superior, Dougla :s Co., Neb 

Eddie, Thos. C Atwood, Rawlins Co., Kan 

Eddie, Alex Atwood, Rawlins Co., Kan 

Fry, Wm. L Scranton, Green Co., Iowa 

Goodnow, M. B Ida, Valley Co., Neb. 

Hatfield, Augustus Jersey City, N. J. 

Hardin, J .Monmouth, Jackson Co., Iowa 

Nagle, M D Dubuque, Dubuque Co., Iowa 

Nims, Weed Bellevue, Jackson Co , Iowa 

Perkins, J- H Scatte, Washington, Ter 

Palmer, A. L Sciatt, Washington Ter 

Ray, John S Naponee, Neb 

Rolf Marion Maquoketa, Jackson Co., Iowa 

Sumbardo, C. L. (captain) Minneapolis, Minn 

Ptarbuck, Wm LaVe Preston, Dak 

Smith, Henry Maquoketa, Jackson county, Iowa 

Teskey, George i:.lvvood, Clinton county, Iowa 

Thompson, Jas. L Perry, Dallas county, Iowa 

VanDuzee, E. M. (Maj.) St. Paul, Minn 

Vanhook, Sam'l Maquoketa, Jackson county, Iowa 

Wintersteen, Henry Montnouth, 111 

Wilson, T Maquoketa, Jackson county, Iowa 

Wood, Joel Maquoketa, Jackson county, Iowa 

Wells, A. Charles Maquoketa, Jackson county, Iowa 

Zediker. Jas. F. (Capt.) Franklin, Franklin county, Neb 

COMPANY K. 

Brooks, John 

Blood, Geo. W....V 

Brown, J. J Bloomington, Franklin county, Neb 

Billings, Chas. D Bloomington, " " " 

Billings, Abram f.uzern N. Y. 

Blanchard, Thos LeMar, Ottowa county, Kan 

Barden, Henry A : ; 

Baldwin, Newton Ada, Ottowa county, Kan 

Church, P Arborville, York county, Neb 

Dolley, Godfrey Hopkinton, Delaware county, Iowa 

Deutsher, Albert Nat Home, Dayton county, Ohio 

Ellison, H Neoma, Neb 

P>eeman, Richard Spencer, Midona county. Ohio 



72 



SECOND REUNION OF THE 



Horn, Sam'l Colesburg, Iowa 

Keith W. B Precept, Kerwin county. Neb 

Kemp, Wm Kirwin, Kan 

Merriam H- C Hopkinton, Del. county, Iowa 

Merriam, C.E 

Mathis W. R King and Decater sts., Omaha, Neb 

Mathis, E. R " " 

Morgan, J- B Davenport, Scott county, Iowa 

Morehouse, P. J Masonville, Del. county, Iowa 

Mosher, Alvin 

Morgan, Wm. B Bloomington, Franklin county, Neb 

McConnell, Alex S Hopkinton, Del. county, Iowa 

Mickey, Isaac Waukon, Allamakee county, Iowa 

Myers, jos. A Dead 

Phillips C. E Tekamah, Burt county, Neb 

Robinson, Alonzo Albion, Boone county. Neb 

Webb, Laurence Cedar Rapids, Linn county, Iowa 

Willard, Porter H Hopkinton, Del- county, Iowa 

Waldroff Henry Laporte City, Black Hawk county, Iowa 



NAMES OF WIVES AND CHILDREN PRESENT. 



Miss Blanche Knee, 
Mrs. A. J. Rodgers, 

'» G«o. S. Durne, 

" D. W. Reed, 
Miss Minnie Reed, 
Master Reed, 
Mre. E. B. Soper, 

" Wm. Hende;8on and daughter, 

" J. E. Simpson, 

" H. R. Amdrows, 

" P. R. Woods, 

" H. J. Grannis, 

" R. Z. Laltimer, 

" P. R. Ketchum, 

" James Stewart, 

" James Barr and two daughters, 

" G. H. Morisey, 

" Abner Dunham and daughter Florence, 

" A. A. Moore, 

" Fred Lankins, 

" John OtiBi, 

" R. W. Terrill, 

" <i. E. Comstock, 

" R. P. Clarkson, and daughter, 

" J. J. Eaton, 

Mrs. D. W. Moreland, 

Miss May Moreland, 



Master Chas. Moreland, 
Mrs. J. F. Zediker and Infant, 
•' W. W. Manu, 
" J. Franks, 
" A. J. Millett, 
Miss Lewis Co. B, 
Mrs. H. A. Lewis, 

" Pobt. Fishel, 

•' O. P. Rocksvold, 

" John Bremner and son, 

" S. Fishel, 

" S. R. Edgington, 
Miss Webb, 
Mrs. J. N. Weaver, 

" J. W. Gift, 

" J. A. Vananda, 

" Hiram Raster, 

" W. W. Moore, 

•' L. Lewis, 

" C. E. Merriam, 

" Geo. Kent, 

" Joe. Girton, 

" W. A. Morstt, 
Master Alfred E. Comstock, 

" Merton E. Cmnstock. 

" Willie- W. Comstock. 



ELDORA SILVER CORNET BAND- 



J. D. Dunter. Leader. 
Geo. H. Lewis, 1st. E Cornet. 
A. 8. Richards, 2d. E Cornet. 
Ed. Whitney. 1st. B. Cornet. 
Geo. B. Speers, Solo Alto. 
E. A. Hudson, let. Alto. 



F. J. Stalismith. 2nd. Alto. 

J. W. Peisen, 1st. Tenor. 

A. Meader, Hanitone. 

D V. Meader, Tuba. 

M. W. Moir, Small Drum. 

Harry B. Shiliiug, Bass Drum. 

M. W. Moir, Sec. 

Eldora, Iowa. 



The band were made honorary members of the Association (see resolution 
page 32) and omitted there by error. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



73 



COMMITTEE ON REGISTRATION AND HISTORY. 
Co. A. Co. F. 

Ciipt. John Bremner, Yankton, Dak. 
W. A. Nelson, Hazleton, Iowa. 
Abner Dunham, Manchester, Iowa. 



€apt. A. E. Webb, Eldora, Iowa. 

Lieut. B F. Ibach, " 

Scrgt. R. P. Olarkson. DesMoinee, Iowa 

Co. B. 

I.ieut. John D. Cole, Lansing, Iowa. 
Sergt. Major A. J. Rodgers, \Vaakon, Iowa. 
IL K. Andrews, West Union, Iowa. 

Co. C. 

Maj. D. W. Rrcd, Waukon, Iowa 
Capt. W. L. Henderson Leioy. Minn. 
Lieut. H J. Grannis, Fayette. Iowa. 

Co. D. 

Cai)t. E. B. Soper. Bmmetsburg, Iowa 

B. P Gouber, Adanis, Neb. 

Edwin A. Bntolph, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Co. E. 

Harv-ey Smith, Waterloo, Iowa. 
John C. Jones, Geneva. low a. 
J. 8. Margretz, Hittesville, Iowa. 



Co. G. 

Capt. J. E. Simpson, Dubuque, Iowa. 
i>. O. Aaker, Ridgeway, Iowa. 
O. P. Rockavold, Thoten, Iowa. 

Co. H. 

Col S. G. Knee, Colesburg. Iowa. 
Ralph Grimes, Kearney, Neb. 
W. J. Playter, Washington, D. C. 

Co. I. 

Capt. J. F. Zediker, Franklin, Neb. 
Wm L. Fry. Scranton, Iowa. 
Geo. Tesky, Elwood, Iowa. 

Co. K. 

Lieut. J. B. Morgan, Davenport, Iowa. 
Sergt. C. E. Merriam, Hopkinton, Iowa. 
Sergt W. R. Mathis, (King and Decatur Sts.,) 
Omaha, Neb. 



ERRATA. 



On page 3, in the Hall Decoration Committee read, 3frs. A. M. Sherwood 
for Mrs. S. M. Sherwood; Read, Minnie Work for Minnie Work. In the En- 
tertainment Committee read Mrs. G. H. Morisey for Mrs. G. W. Morrey. In 
Finance Committee read R. M. Marvin for K. M. Marvin. 

On page 11 third line from bottom, read Tupelo for Topelo. 

On page 30, fourth line, read G. H. Morisey for G. S. Morisey. 

Poem on page 43 should have the name ot the author y. W. Shannon inserted. 

Page 46, ninth line, read H. R. Andreivs for H. P. Andrews. 

To the Roster of Co. F., page 68, add the names of David S. Godfrey, Jas- 
per Mo., L. C. Bush, Lexington, Iowa. 



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ATTENTION, COMRSDES! 



It has been determined that we will send a copy of the pro- 
ceedings of our last reunion to each surviving comrade whose ad- 
dress we have. And we hope that those who have not already paid 
membership fees or dues, will remit said dues of one dollar, or send 
twenty-five cents, the cost of said pamphlet, to the undersigned 
treasurer of the association at Algona. Iowa. All who signed our 
by-laws and became members of our association, whose names ap- 
pear on page 46 of this book, are entitled to a copy free of charge. 

We are anxious that all who can will become members of our 
society, and if you will send one dollar to the treasurer and direct 
him to do so, he will inscribe your name on the roll making you a 
member, and you will be entitled to this book without additional 
cost. Unless this is done we hope you will send the 25 cents.^'' - -- \t^ 
Comrades let us not forget each other. Help a little in the good ' "^ 
work. If you know of any comrade who served in our regiment whose 
name does not appear on our book, or whose address is changed, be 
kind enough to send his name and address to Capt. E. B. Soper, Em- 
metsburg, Iowa. 

By order of Executive Committee. 

James Barr, Treasurer, 

Algona, Kossuth Co. Iowa. 



I^MIRZ) REHfJMION 



-OP THE- 



I2ffl IOWA V. V, INFANTRY 



-IIKI.U AT- 



WATERLOO, IOWA. 



THURSDAY ^^FBIDAUPRIL 5th .o^ 6th, 1888. 




MANCHESTER, IOWA : 
Manchester Press Steam Job Print 
t8S8. 



E2^P=I_j^?L.lNr^^TOI^^^_ 



In the preparation of this pamphlet, the Committee ha\e 
labored under many disadvantages, all of which have had a 
tendency to delay its issue. 

Those who have not had the trial, know but little of the 
annoyance and immense labor required in the preparation of 
a pamphlet of proceedings of any deliberative body, in the 
absence of matter which should have been prepared and kept 
at the time of meetin<»^. 

Many of the speeches were extemporaneous, and our 
Secretary not being able, with all his other duties, to keep ac- 
curate minutes of the proceedings, and there being no short 
hand reporter provided, the Committee found themselves 
almost entirely without the proper data from which to make 
up this pamphlet. 

They were therefore compelled to commence a system of 
correspondence with the comrades who favored the Associa- 
tion with impromptu remarks, asking them to furnish as near- 
ly as possible what they said, so as to enable us to prepare 
something worthy of publication. Some replied, sending us 
the required matter, for which we take this opportunity to ex- 
press our sincere thanks, others replied, saying that it was im- 
possible for them to recollect what the}- said upon various sub- 
jects; others, that owing to important and pressing business 
engagements, it was impossible for Ijiem to comply; and 
others for some reason unknown to us did not reply at all. 

We regret exceedingly, not only on our own account, but 
on account of all the comrades and all the readers of this pam- 
phlet, that we have been unable to procure some matter that 
we have considered almost indispensable, notabl}^ among 
which was the excellent address of welcome b}^ our late Gov- 
ernor, the Hon. B. R. Sherman. 

R. W. TIRRILL, ) 

G. H. MORISEY, '• Committee. 

A. DUNHAM. \ 



OOIvO^/OITTEIES- 



Committee of Arrangements, 



B. R SHERMAN. C^liairmmi. 
J. H. LEAVITT, 

J. W. KRAPFEL, 
G. E. LICHTY, 
J. E. WYANT, 
WM. THOMPSON, 
W. W. WHITENACK, 

C. D. BECKER, 
H. A SARGENT, 
G O. SNOWDEN, 
R. P. FOWLER. 



FRANK NP:ELY. 
8. M HOFF. 
I. VAN METER, 
C. I). WANGLER, 
F. E. CUTLER, 
A- J. EDWARDS, 
H. H. SAUNDERS, 
W. M. SINDLINGER 
DR. G. .). MACK. 
C. W. MULLEN. 



Finance Committee. 



GEORGE O. SNOWDEN, 
W. W. WHITENACK, 



H. H. SAUNDERS, 
J. E. WYANT. 

Printing Committee. 

1. VAN METER. 



B. R. SHERMAN, 

Hall and Rendezvous Committee. 

R. P. FOWLER, West Side, C. D. WANGLER, East Sido 



Hotel and Transportation Committee. 
J. H. LEAVITT. 



A. J. EDWARDS, 
S M. HOFF, 
F. NEELY, 
W. M. SINDLINGER, 
C. B. STILSON, 
MRS. THOMPSON, 
MRS. MEADOWS, 
MRS SNYDER. 



F. E CUTLER, 
DR. ARTMAN, 
MR. BENTLY. 



Banquet Committee. 



H. A. SARGENT. 
W. W. WHITENACK, 
WM. THOMPSOI^, 
G. E. LICHTY, 
MRS. WHITENACK. 
MRS. ALBEE, 
MRS. HOFER, 



Music Committee. 



C. O. BALLIETT. 
F. C. PLATT, 



Invitation and Toast Committee. 



C. W. MULLEN, 
F. NEELY. 



B. R. SHERMAN, 



i^i^oo-iBj^is/r— p^iiesT JD^^ir. 



.Mt'Pting of Executive Cominittoo. Music. 

Called to (Jrder by Col S. K. Edjiiugton, President of the Reg'tl Associatioir. 

Prayer. 
Appointment of Committees on Resolutions, Finance, next Reunion, etc. 
Reading of letters from absent comrades. 
Report of Historic.nl (Joinniittee, by I). Reed. 
Discussion and further action in regard to Regimental History. 
Miscell.ineous Business. Short talks on call. 

EVENING. 

Camp Fire. Music. 

Address of Welcome. Response by Col. S. R. Edgington. 

Why We Mold Reunions — Response by S. R. Burch. 
Music. 

The "Hornets Nest Brigade," Their valoa* saved the World's Greatest Com- 
mander. — ^Response by T. B. Edgington, of Memphis, Tennessee. 

Was the War Worth the Sacrifice? One Country, One Flag, and Alore Stars. 
Response by 1). B. Henderson, of Dubuque. 

Home when the Boys were Away. Tlie Dark Days of '61 to 'fio.— Response 
by Mrs. R. W. Tirrill, Manchester, Iowa. 

Tlie Broom Stick Mightier than the Sword. It always Rules the Infantry. 
Response l)y D, W. Reed, Waukon, Iowa. 
Music. 

The Iowa Soldiers' Home. A Gratefnl State proudly acknowledges her in- 
debtedness. — Response by B. E. Eberhart, La Porte City, Iowa. 

"Co. Q." Always ready for Duty and Double Rations — Response by P. R. 
Ivetchum, Winslow, Ic^wa. 
Music. 

The Citizens of Waterloo. Your Patriotism and Hospitality will live in our 
memories forever. — Response by J. H. Stibbs, Chicago. 

Song — " Marching Through Georgia." All sing. 




Music. Called to order. Prayer. 

Committee Reports. Election of Officers. 

JMiscellaneous Business. Short Talks by Everybody. 

Music. Parade. Banquet at Turner Hall. 

Toasts and Responses at West Side Opera House. 
The Folks at Home. — Respon.se by Rev. J. O. Stevenstm, Waterloo. 

Music. 
The Army Chaplain.— Response by Rev. C. S. Percival, Waterloo. 

Music. 
The Sacrifices for the Union. — Re.sponse by Col. W. P. Hepburn, Clarinda. 

Music. 
" Hard Tack."— Response by H. C. Hemenw^ay, Cedar Falls. 

Music. 
"The Girl I Left Behind Me."— Response by C. W. Mullan, Waterloo. 

Music. 
The Heroism of the War.— Response by Col. D. B. Henderson, Dubuciue. 



KE,I!J MIO M 



X2m I0W4 Y. Y. INMNTRY, 

nPRIL 5th ^^ Bth, IBBB. 



-^^mi *^m^^*—. — 5^»?— 

The third reunion of the surviving members of the old 12th Iowa Volun 
teer Infantry, was held at Waterloo, Iowa, Thursday and Friday, April 5th 
and 6th, 1888, and was attended by about 170 of the Veterans, many of whom 
were accompanied by their wives and children. 

The city of Waterloo had donned her gala dress for the occasion, and as 
the old comrades arrived from different sections of the country, they were 
greeted at the depots by the proper committees and escorted to the Opera 
House, where registration was in order and hand-shaking and renewals of 
old times were indulged in. 

The forenoon of the first day was given to the greeting of comrades, re- 
newing the old friendships and fighting the old battles over again. 

Among the numerous tasty decorations with which the city abounded, 
the most notable was that on the Logan House corner, it being a monument 
about fifteen feet high and placed on a base in imitation of stone, the inscrip- 
tion on the monument being as follows : 

Hornet's Nest Brigade. — 12th Iowa Vet. Vol. Infantry. 

FIELD and staff. 

Colonel— J. J. Woods. Lieut. Col.— J. P. Coulter. 

Major— S. D. Brodtbeck. Adjutant— N. F. Dungan. 

Quartermaster — J. B. Dorr. Surgeon — C. C. Parker. 

Asst Surgeons ^ ^- ^- ^i^^^^" Chaplain-A. G. Eberhart. 

Asst. surgeons ^ ^^ Underwood. 

Under this was the following list of battles in which the regiment took 
part: 

Fort Henry, Fort Donelson, Shiloh, Corinth, Siege of Corinth, Jackson, 
Vicksburg, Black River, Jackson, (Second), Brandon, Tupelo, White River, 
Nashville, Holly Springs, Spanish Fort. 



THIRD KEir:NrON OP THE 



The other two faces of the shaft were devoted to the records of the sev- 
eral companies, showiiiij: the counties where they were recruited and the 
oriiiinal commissionod officers, as follows: 

Co A, Hardin countv, Captain, S, R Edgington; 1st Lieut., A. E.Webb; 
•2d Lieut., G W. Moir; 1)2 men. 

Co. IJ, Allanmkce county. Captain, W. C. Earl; 1st Lieut , L. IL Mer- 
rill ; 2d Lieut., J. H. Borger;: !)() men. 

Co C, Fayette county Cai)tain, Wm. Warner; 1st Lieut, D. B. Hen- 
derson; 2d Lieut , A. M. Smith; KiO men. 

(/'o. D, Linn county Captain, J. 11. Stibbs; 1st Lieut., J D. Furguson 
2d Lieut., Ilile Hale; !)8 men. 

Co. E, Hlackhawk county. Captain, W. Haddock; 1st Lieut , J. Elwell 
2d Lieut,, R. Williams; 1)4 men 

Co. F, I>ela\vare county Ca])tain, J, E. Aiiusworth; 1st Lieut., J. W 
(jift; 2d Lieut , \V. A. Morse; 99 men. 

Co G, Winneshiek county. Captain, C. C, Tapper; 1st Lieut., L. D 
Townsley; 2d Lieut, J. F. Nickerson; 9n men. 

Co. n, Dubuque county. Captain, H. J. Piayter; 1st Lieut., R. Fishel 
2d Lieut, L W. Jackson; 82 men. 

Co. I, Jackstm county Captain, E. M. Van Duzce; 1st Lieut., J. J 
Marks; 2d Lieut., A. L Palmer; 85 men. 

Co. K, Delaware county. Captain, I. G. Fowler; 1st Lieut., L Webb; 
2d Lieut., J. J. Brown; 84 men 

Total number, 981 men. Number of miles marched, 15,000. 

Near the base of the monument was a brass mountain howitzer captured 
by Co. D, at Selma, Alabama. 

THURSDAY AFTERNOON. 

At one o'chxik the executive committee met at the Opera House and 
proceeded to the transaction of such matters as were ready for their consid- 
eration. 

LTpon the completion of the business before the executive committee, the- 
association having convened, together with a large outjwuring of the citizens 
of Waterloo, the assemblage was called to order by Col. S. R. Edgington, 
president of the regimental association, who introduced Rev. Dr. C. S. Per- 
cival, Chaplain of the 12th N. Y. Cavalry during the war, who opened the 
exercises with prayer. 

The first order of business being the appointment of committees, the 
president made the following appointments : 

On Resolutions— II. W. Tirrill, R. P. Clarkson, J. E. Simpson, John N. 
Weaver and E. B. Soper. 

On Finance— J. W. Gift, J. H. Stibbs, B. E. Eberhart, John Cole and J. 
F. Zediker. 

On Officers for next Reunion— D. W. Reed, W. W. AVhiteneck, R. W. Tir- 
rill, J. E. Simpson and P. R. Woods. 

The secretary then proceeded to read the following letters and telegrams 
from absent comrades : 

Montana, Kansas, March 11, 1888. 

Mr. W. W. Whiteneck — Dear Comrade : — Your letter reached me several 
days ago, but as it did not state when the reunion was to be held, I delayed 
answering until I ascertained the time. The prol3ability is that I shall at- 
tend, but I cannot be certain yet whether I shall be able to do so or not I 
feel much obliged to you and other members of the regiment for the kind- 
ness you have heretofore shown me, and the interest taken to have me pres- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. \. INFANTRY. 



ent at the reunion. I assure you it would afford me great pleasure to meet 
again my comrades of the old I2th. Yours, truly, J J. Woods. 

Los Angeles, Cal., March 2<5, 1888. 

My Dear Col Edgiagtou: — Received yours of 21st ultimo Accept my 
thanks for the welcome invitation. You can be iissured that nothing would 
\give me more pleasure than to be able to meet you and our dear boys once 
again, but it will be impossible for me to attend next reunion 

Please give my love and hearty greetings to "every one " of the good old 
l»oys of the 12th. " May they all prosper and enjoy life and be able to cele- 
brate yet many reunions," is my toast and my most earnest wish and prayer. 

Affectionately, your old comrade and Major, S. D Brodtbeck. 

P. S.— I could not write to you earlier, because my dear wife, my com- 
panion for nearly fifty years, was ill, and yesterday was laid in her eternal 
resting place on earth, and is waiting for me in heaven, where I hope to 
meet her and all my dear comrades. 

House of Representatives, ) 
Washington, D. C. February 21, 1888. \ 

Major D. W Reed, — Waukon, Iowa. My dear friend : —Yours transmitting 
notice of our next 12tli Iowa reunion is just received. That is one of the re- 
unions I will not miss if it is possible for me to be there. Of course that 
must be subordinate to my public duties, but if possible I will be there, and 
I authorize you to say so to any inquiring friends. Very truly yours, 

D. B. Henderson 

House of Representatives, ( 
Washington, D. C, March 19, 1888. f 

CoL S. R. Edgington, Eldora, Iowa. My dear Colonel :— -I find that I 
must come to you to perform a painful duty, and that is to say that there is 
but little hope of my being able to attend our next reunion. With the tariff 
battle coming on, with the presidential fight impending and the immense 
work that it is now imposing upon me, together with my current official du- 
ties, I do not see how it will be possible for me to spare the time to go to 
Waterloo. 

I write you this now so that you may make further preparations for 
speaking, as there is not one chance in ten of my being able to attend. 

It hurts me to write this conclusion, for I have no gathering of any kind 
that I look forward to with as sincere pleasure as I do the reunion of the old 
12th Iowa Infantry. 

Remember me kindly to all the comrades at the reunion, and please 
make it clear to them that it is through no fault of mine that I am not with 
them. Your friend and comrade, D. B. Henderson, 

St. Paul, Minn , April 4, 1888. 

Col. S. R. Edgingtoru My dear friend : — I have tried to plan to attend 
the reunion of our old regiment, but an attack of nervous prostration, which 
puts me under the doctor's care, prevents. Be kind enough to present my 
warmest greetings to all who are present, and express my regrets at being 
•iinable to join in the pleasant exercises of the reunion. Very truly, 

E M. Van Duzee, 

St Paul, Minn, April 4, 1888. 

Capt. J. F. Zediker. My dear friend : — Yours of 28th ult. received. I 
am very glad to hear from you and to know of your success in this life and 
hope of a better life beyond, I have, in the last few years, received several 
cards and circulars from you, but do not remember of receiving any letter to 
which I have not responded. 

It would give me much pleasure to meet my old comrades and take 
them by the hand. I presume they have changed in outward appearance so 



THIRD REUNION OP THE 



that I should fail to recognize many of them, as they, doubtless, would hardly 
know me. I am bearing some of the marks of time, but my spirit is still 
young. I cherish very i)le;isant memories of the companionships of our ser- 
vice, and should enjoy talking over old times and renewing old friendships. 
But I am to be disajipointed again. I am now under the doctor's care for 
nervous prostration I had hoped to be able to attend this reunion, as cir- 
cumstances have prevented my attending the otliers. I shall hope, another 
year to be present. Give my kindest regards to all members of company I, 
who are at the reunion, and my best wishes for their future welfare. I shall 
be glad to hear from you often. Very truly, E M. Van Duzee. 

Bkrhien Springs, Mich., April 3, 1888. 
Abner Dunham, Manchester, Iowa. Dear comrade : — I received your 
notice of the third reunion of the 12th Iowa Infantry, which takes place at 
Waterloo on the 5tli and Oth of April, of tluit grand "old regiment I love so 
well ; and when I read the notice, as follows: " Time is thinning our ranks, 
and we who are left, must step to tli" front, and so long as possible keep our 
lines unbroken," it makes me think back twenty-tive years ago, of the liard- 
ships, sufferings, pain and distress, we incurred together in the war and pri- 
son dens. Company G boys will remember I am the boy who made my es- 
cape from Memphis Sunday morning, but v.ns recaptured at Germantown, 
and sent south. I had made all arrangements to meet with you, but will not 
be able to for the reason that I am taken with a very l)ad cold. Please re- 
member me to all of the dear comrades, and .'specially to all of the company 
G boys I hope to be with you at your next reunion. I am fraternally, 
Nelson J Davis, Late Co. 6, 12th Iowa Infantry. 

Denver, Colorado, April 1, 1888. 
To Members of the i2th Iowa in Third Reunion ksspiiibled: 

Dear Comrades: — Until within a few weeks, I had fully intended to be 
with you at Waterloo, but my business is such that I cannot leave without 
greater loss than I can afford. I regret exceedingly that it is so, for I know 
from former experience what a good time you will have I can imagine you 
now, as I write, and your dear old faces are as plainly before me as on dress 
parade. Oh, how the old memories crowd themselves on my mind, and my 
pen is unequal to the task of putting them on paper As I sit here thinking, 
I see Dunham, (God ble-ss him) and Morisey, and Comstock, and Grannis, 
and Reed, and Knee, and — well, I see you all, and here's my hand, shake, boys, 
my heart is with you, if my body is absent. Here I am, crying like a baby. 

You all know the effort I made four years ago to be with you, so I think 
it not necessary to assure you of my loyalty, and as you grasp each other by 
the hand, and the eyes moisten, and you live over again " The Days of Auld 
Lang Syne," just give me a kindly thought, for I will be with you in spirit. 

I wish you a royal good time, and may God bless you. Yours until the 
Grand Review. S. M. French, Late Principal Musician 12th Iowa, 

291 1 Lafayette St , Denver, Colorado. 

Wahoo, Nebraska, April 4, 1888. 
Capt. J. E. Simpson, Waterloo, Iowa. My dear old friend: — For the 
last four years I have indulged the hope and expectation to be with you at 
Waterloo this time, and not until last evening did anything transpire to pre- 
vent me from going. I am so very sorry. Please present my compliments 
and regrets to Col. Edgington and all inquiring friends and comrades, and 
assure them that the tire of love for country. Hag, and the old regiment burns 
just as bright as ever on my heart's altar. The camp, march and field are 
remembered with melancholy pride, and at the bier of the daughter of the 
regiment -Miss Florence Dunham — I drop a silent tear, in token of the un- 
timelj' departure of one so promising and universally beloved. Hope j^ou 
will have a pleasant, enthusiastic meeting. I have but one favor to ask at 
j'our hands at this time, which is, when Sergt. — Lieut. Grannis appears upon 
the stage with the old war-worn, tattered and torn colors, give one long, loud 
shout for your absent friend and comrade, John Steen. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. nSFAT!irTRY. 



Piedmont, Wkst Virginia, March 19, 1888. 

Dr. James Barr, Algona, Iowa. My Dear Doctor :—Youris of the 14th 
inst., enclosing a call to the third reunion of the r2th Iowa V. V. Infantry is 
just received. To be allowed to meet those noble men once more would be 
a delight, but to do so this year will be impossible. I am sorry to hear of 
the death of the wife of Comstock, and of the daughter of Dunham. They 
have gone home. We, too, at no distant day shall be mustered out. While 
in the service let us hold the fort. And I well know that you will and the 
veteran lieutenant and the color-bearer of a hundred fields will always stand 
to the colors in the front in the thickest of the fight. 

My health compelled me to leave the northwest for a warmer climate. 
Since I came here it has improved, yet I have to use my forces with a care 
and prudence to which I was a total stranger before I entered the army. 

I trust and hope that you will have a jubilant reunion at Waterloo, like 
that we had at Manchester. Give my love to the veterans whom I honor and 
respect, and I hope a country saved by their valor will acknowledge its ob- 
ligation to their heroism by giving them some assistance in the way of pen- 
sions to meet the needs of declining years — assistance which is justly due 
but can never pay back the health, strength and life which they gave to their 
country. With kind remembrances to your family, your friend, 

F. HUMPHKKY. 

Big Run, Jeffekson County, Pa., March 29, 1888. 

To the Members of the 12th Iowa Infantry: 

It is with extreme regret that I can not, under existing circumstances, 
be present at the reunion on the 5th and 6th of April, (much as I would like 
to be there). My best wishes are with the boys. Hoping you may all have 
a pleasant and enjoyable time, I remain, W. H Boweks, 

Company C, 12th Iowa Infantiy. 

Davenport, Iowa, April 4, 1888. 

To mil bid Comrades of the i2th: 

Comrades: — I am very sorry I cannot be with you at your reunion; cir- 
cumstances over which I have no control prevent me from meeting my old 
comrades. I know it would be a great pleasure to me, but it can't be helped, 
so the next best I can do is to report by letter, so put me down on the rolls 
as present, anyhow. 

I extend to one and all of my old comrades, the right hand of friend- 
ship ; let those that are absent think of those that are present, and those that 
are present remember those that are absent ; all as brothers, for brothers we 
are always, aye and ever. Wishing you all such a good time as only a reun- 
ion can bring to the old heroes of a hundred fields, and the best men that 
ever trod a continent, I am now as heretofore, your comrade, 

(Shake, every one.) Dennis Conley, "D," 12th Iowa V. V. I. 

Vancouver, W. T., March 21, 1888. 

Benjamin E. Eberhart. My dear friend and comrade: — I was much 
pleased to receive your favor inviting me to come and join in the third re- 
union of the dear old 12th Iowa. I have long wished for the pleasure to 
be at one of its reunions, to once more see and greet my brave and gallant 
old comrades. But I am sorry to say that I cannot possibly avail myself of 
the happy privilege to do so at the coming reunion, owing to the absence of 
my commanding officer on detached duty until April 80th, current. I have 
charge of the issuing of all the military stores at this ordnance depot to every 
Post in the department, as the same is required. I have had charge of that 
duty ten years, hence in the absence of my commanding officer, I cannot be 
spared from my duty. I have pending in Congress a bill for my special re- 
tirement, with seventy-five per cent of pay and allowances, which, if it passes, 
I will be free and at liberty to go where and when I please, and if such shall 
be my good fortune, and I be alive when the next reunion is held, I promise 



10 TIIIKD KEUNIOX OF THE 



to be there if possible. It will be but a few times that it can be possible but 
for a lucky few to so meet, owinj? to the most havini^ been mustered out and 
joined the uTeat silent majority, their deaths hastened' in most cases from 
physical infirmities enireiider.'d in the terrible ordeal of tliat lon.i,' and cruel 
war for tlie preservation of our loved nation. When I think of tlie patriot- 
ism and sacrifices which alone impelled the brave union soldiers to voluntari- 
ly imperil their lives in defense of their loved couufry, iiud tlie inestimable 
ble.ssinii:s secured to the nation throu<rli their unconqileral^le valor, and con- 
siderinj^ the plethoric condition of the national treasury, witli such vast 
amount of treasure lying idle and kept out of tlie business circulation of the 
country, I feel aghast at the refusal by the governing power of promjjt rec- 
ognition of the claims of the nation's defenders as petitioned by the (i A. li. 
committee, and the first settled among them should l)e the claims of the pris- 
oners of war, to reward tiu'm as it l)est and only can for tlie outrageous and 
inhuman treatment which they endured at the "hands of their brutal captors. 
Ben, with all your sad misfortune to get so seriously wounded at the battle of 
Shiloh by that grape shot which went under the bridge of your nose and 
lodged in the socket of your right eye, and which necessitated sending you 
to the rear for medical treatment, yon thereby was certainly saved from 
the tortures of the confederate prison hells. Ben, I shall never forget your 
forcible and impious exclamation, when I first picked you up and 
relieved you of your sword and revolver. Xo, luckily you was left a very 
narrow margin for life, and your face was very bloody from your wound. I 
surely thought your end had come, but that meaning exclamation dispelled 
that gloomy thought, and I concluded that you would get well. Oh, how 
rejoiced I would be, if present, to hear repeated by the comrades the old, old 
stories of glory and suffering we shared in common together I hope that 
our sturdy old friend and comrade, D. B. Henderson, will be present with 
you to enthuse the boys. The boys must keep him in Congress to champion 
their cause and interest. I am highly pleased that Waterloo (the old head- 
quarters of company E,) is selected for the occasion, as it is the most central 
place for the majority to reach that could be selected, and I feel well a.ssured 
that you will receive a cordial welcome and hosjiitable treatment. I beg of 
you to express for me my sincere love and regard to every comrade of the 
old regiment. I hope that it will be a happy and profitable meeting. I am, 
Your friend and comrade, Robetit Wii,i,iam8. 

Lake Forest, Lake County, Ills., April 1, 1888. 

Dear Comrade : — I was very glad to hear from you, and also from Gen. 
J. H. Stibbs, and I am very sorry that I cannot be one of your number at the 
i-eunion. My whole heart is with you; it is so that I cannot possibly get 
away; please give my best wishes to all of old company "D." I will write 
you a good letter when I hear from you again. Give m^^ best respects to 
little Captain J. H. Stibbs; tell him I will write to him very soon. So good 
bye ; from your old friend and comrade Perry Gephart. 

Hazelton, Iowa, April 4, 1888. 

Dear Comrades and Soldiers : — I regret that I cannot be with you, but 
under the circumstance it is impossible to be there. I have been sick for 
some time, and am not able to come, but I hope that you will have a good 
time, and maybe the next reunion I will be able to come. I am in hopes so, 
at least. I will close by sending my best wishes to you all. 

Your Comrade, Joseph S. Girton. 

LoTJiisviLLE, Ky., April 1, 1888. 

Dear Dunham : — It is with feelings of regret that I announce my ina- 
bility to attend the reunion on the 5th and fith. I had looked forward to the 
meeting with no little anxiety, but since I left home measles broke out in 
the family of my next door neighbor, and I fear that my children and wife 
have been exposed, not one of them ever having had them. Say to the boys 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 11 

for me, that I regret very, very much that I can't be with them, for if tliere 
is a people on earth— outside of kin — I truly love, it is the members of the 
old 12th. It is true our associations were short, but long enough to seal our 
love for one anotlicr to eternity. Tell the boys I tliink of them often, and 
especiallj' never do I wander over the beautiful grounds of the cemetery at 
Pittsburg, but what the days of more than a quarter of a century ago, the 6th 
of April, and the faces of the dear boys who stood around me on that memor- 
able day, are brought vividly back. And when I pass over these grounds 
and read the names of our fallen comrades, some of whom I can remember, 
my heart grows sick. Tell Justice Schneider, if he is alive and present, that 
I remember him well, and would be glad to hear from him, as would I also 
from any of the boys. I hope yet to pay you all a visit, and am nearly sure 
that I will do it at some day not far distant. Should I defer the matter for 
twenty-five or thirty more years, age will be creeping on us and we would 
not seem ourselves. . 

Accept my sympathy for your last sad bereavement — the loss of your 
daughter. I again entreat you to remember me kindly to the boys. 

I am, truly, C. C. Stribijng. 

Lincoln, Ner., April 3, 1888 
Dear friends of the 12th Iowa Infantry Volunteers : — I had thought up 
to date I surely should be with you on this great occasion, but as duty com- 
pels me to stay at home I must sacrifice the pleasure it woi'ild afford me 
to be with you all to-day. My mother has been sick for two years, 
and for the last six months has been bed fast, so that it is impossible for me to 
leave her, therefore my absence from you is unavoidable, but you may rest 
assured my thoughts are with you all, and I hope you will have a glorious 
reunion, and tiiat all thttt. are at this reunion may live to celebrate a good 
many more. With the very kindest regards to all, I remain, yours as ever, 

F. F Lankins, Co. B, 12th Iowa V. I. 

PouTERViLLE, Kansas, April 2, 1888. 
, Dear Mr. Dunham, and other friends: — I am reminded that the 5th and 
6th of April is drawing near, and that many of the old 12th Iowa will meet 
in reunion. I have still pleasant remembrance of the reunion at Manchester, 
eight years ago. I wish to be remembered to all of the friends, particularly 
company F. Tell them that while sunny Kansas is not paradise, I cannot 
help, as I look out on the green trees and flowers and sunshine to-day, wish- 
ing they might have as pleasant a day for the reunion as to-day is here. 

Hoping that you may all have a pleasant time, and the camp-fire may 
have plenty of rails, I remain, with kindest regards, , 

Alice F. Eldredge Lambdin. 

And I think I belong to the 12th Iowa. 

St. Paul, Minn., April 4, 1888. 
jibner Dwihavi, Sec'ij., Waterloo, Iowa : 

Dear Sir :^ — I wrote Capt. Reed, when I received notice of the reunion of 
the Veteran Twelfth Iowa, at Waterloo, on the 5th and 6th, that 1 surely 
would be there. At the last hour I find, with regret, that I cannot, without 
undue sacrifice, leave home and bu.siness. Please make my cordial greeting 
to the men of that noble regiment, with whom I was so pleasantly associated 
in the army, and express my sincere regret that I cannot be with them. God 
bless them, one and all. Sincerely yours, Wm. R. Marshall. 

Vinton, Iowa, April 1, 1888. 
Ahrier Dunham, Sec'y 12t?i Iowa Infantry <iissociai\on : 

My Dear Comrade : — I deeply regret that sickness in my family prevents 
my attendance with the comrades in the Third Regimental Reunion, and the 
more so, because of the thinning in the ranks which must take place by the 
inevitable muster-out between this time and the next reunion. That the 
Third Reunion may be in every way satisfactory, is the earnest wish of 

Comrade J W. Rich, Co. E, 12th Iowa 



12 TiriRD RETTNION OF THE 



De8 Moines, Iowa, April 3, 1888. 

Col. S. R. Edgington, Eldora, Iowa. My dear Colonel : — Yours of 27tlx 
ultimo inviting me to attend the meeting of your gallant old regiment — the 
12th Iowa — on Shiloh day at Waterloo, received. I regret exceedingly that 
other engagements will prevent jny going, for nothing would give me more 
pleasure than to meet with the brave men who stood like a wall of fire in 
front of the enemies of our country, on that memorable day. and who so 
potentially aided in making the Iowa soldier and the "hornets' nest" a name 
to be proud of and a reward to be envied. 

My kind regards to the boys, and maj^ you all live to see many returns 
of this anniversary of the great battle of Shiloh, in which they took so dis- 
tinguished and honorable part. Truly your friend, J. M. Tuttle. 

Union Stock Yauds, Cuicaoo, III., April 5, 1888. 

Abner Dunham — Secretary Soldiers' Reunion: — I have looked forward 
to the meeting of to-day with great pleasure, but circumstances prevent my 
being with you. Give my regrets to comrades. John ElWei-l. 

Yankton, D. T., April 5, 1888. 

Abner Dunham — Secretary 12th Iowa Association: — With kindest greet- 
ings to the dear old Twelfth. John Bremner 



Major D. W. Reed, chairman of the committee on the history of the reg- 
iment, then made the following report : 
To the Comrades of the 12th Iowa Infantry: 

Your committee on Regimental History beg leave to report as follows: 

At our reunion four years ago, your committee reported progress, and* 
suggested, that to make the history as complete as it ought to be, sub-com- 
mittees should be appointed by each company to collect and arrange such 
matters of interest peculiar to each company as ought to be preserved. Such 
committees were appointed, and their names published on page 73 of min- 
utes of your last reunion. It was also suggested at that time that per.sonal 
sketches of lives of commissioned officers at least, be procured for the his- 
tory. Very soon after said reunion your committee notified the chairman of 
each of these sub-committees of their appointment, and urged their co-opera- 
tion in the work of making the history a faithful record that would pre- 
serve to our children the events in the service of a gallant regiment. 

To give some direction to this work and make it as nearly uniform as 
possible, your committee suggested that company histories should cover the 
following particulars at least : 

I. When and where organized and by whom recruited. 
II. When ordered into camp ; date of arrival at camp. 

III. Date of muster into United States service. 

IV. Sketch of life of each commissioned officer, with enlistment, pro- 
motion, wounds, special service, etc. 

V. Record of battles, campaigns, scouts, marches, skirmishes, etc., by 
(company, especially when detached from regiment. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRT. 



13 



V'l. Matters of special company interest, and worthy of record, such as 
individual acts of gallantry, incidents of camp, etc 

VII. As complete roster of company as possible, showing each man's 
enlistment, wounds, promotion, death, discliarge, etc. 

Failing to receive responses to these requests, personal letters were 
written to other members of committees, until responses have been received 
from several companies, and others have agreed to have the work done. 

Comrade J. S Margretz was first to respond with a very complete histo- 
ry of company ';E." Comrade Soper responded with a chapter of history of 
company " D " This company divided the work among different members 
of their committee, and are doing thorough work. Comrade J. D. Cole, 
from his very complete diary kept during the war, was able to put company 
"B" in splendid shape. Comrades Col. Edgington and Clarkson ha%'e 
vouched for the work of company "A," but have not handed it in. Comrade 
Bremner — company "F," — asks further time to complete his work. Com- 
panies "G" and "H" are without a promise from any one to undertake the 
work. Comrades Zediker and Teskey have assured us that company"!" 
would be attended to. Comrade Morgan — company "K" — chairman of com- 
mittee, assures us that it is impossible for him to give sufficient time for this 
work, and others of the company have not replied to letters sent. 

Your committee has also endeavored to obtain some personal items of 
Regimental Officers, relying upon sub-committees to arrange such items of 
company officers. 

From the office of Adjutant General U. S. A., and other sources, we were 
able to obtain the desired items in regard to Col. Woods. From comrade M. 
P. Mills, who married the daughter of Lieut. Col. Coulter, we are pi'omised 
a slvetch of the Lieutenant Colonel's life. Major Brodtbeck could not be 
persuaded to put himself on record, but by appealing to his daughter, Mrs. 
Wymetal, of Denver, Colorado, we were able to secure a complete record of 
his service in the Prussian army, etc. Mrs. Dr. Huff has said th'at as soon as 
she can get at the doctor's papers she would give her personal attention to 
the matter. Several others are on file, others are promised and only one or 
two have refused outright, though several have required considerable urging. 
These personal sketches are, we are sure, just such items as the comrades 
will desire to know and have preserved in permanent form. Your committee 
has been very much interested in these sketches and histories, and hope oth- 
er officers now living, and friends of those deceased, will surely see that all 
these items are furnished. 

The sub-committee on history of Union Brigade have not reported their 
work. This gallant band of much abused, imposed upon-soldiers should not 
be neglected. Some of the best fighting of the war was done by these same 
men. In addition to these personal sketches and company histories, your 
committee has procured full sets of Adjutant Generals' reports of the State 
of Iowa, and have prepared references to all mention made of the regiment, 



14 THIRD REUKION OF THE 



from which to copy such matter as may be of interest. They have also made 
quite lengthy extracts from official reports of the battles in which the regi- 
ment was engaged, as published in official records of the rebellion, including 
reports of confederate officers commanding the troops opposed to the 12th 
Iowa on different fields. We find these reports very interesting, especially 
of such battles as Shiloh, for by these, at least, we are able to prove that the 
" Hornets' Nest Brigade " did not surrender in the morning without tiring a 
gun, but that they fought the whole rebel army and surrendered only when 
the day was spent and the battle won. Nearly every confederate officer on 
the field that day, from corps commander to the'last colonel, claims the hon- 
or of having taken part in the final action which broke Grant's line at five 
o'clock p. m , and that they were present when Prentiss surrendered. 

These reports, of themselves, if put in shape for ready reference, will 
prove, without a lingering doubt in any mind, that the 2d, 7th, 8th, 12th, and 
14th Iowa, comprising the " Hornets' Nest Brigade," held the key to the po- 
sition on the field of Sbiloh twenty-six years ago to-day, and held it again.st 
the combined attack of twelve whole brigades and the Crescent regiment ; 
that after twelve unsuccessful charges in which these forces literally broke 
themselves to pieces on our line, Gen. Ruggles admits that he found it im- 
possible to break the line by direct assault with infantry, and sent his stafE 
to collect all the artillery to his left, and names eleven batteries and a section 
which he brought to a commanding position in our front and concentrated 
the fire upon our position while he sent infantry to attack the flanks. 

It was, according to these reports, only after the extreme rebel left com- 
manded by Gen. Pond, had driven Sherman and McClernaud back, and by a 
continuous right wheel had, in rear of " Hornets' Nest," met the forces of 
Chalmers, who had on the right driven back Stewart and Hurlbut, and this 
brigade was enclosed in a circle composed of the whole rebel army and ex- 
posed to the concentrated fire of Ruggles' artillery, that they were forced 
from the position assigned them in the morning. 

All this matter now^ on hand should be properly arranged, and as soon 
as reports are all in, should be printed. Your committee urge immediate 
action by those who have not completed the work intended, forgetting, if 
need be, our natural modesty in preparing these sketches, remembering that 
we work not for ourselves but for our children and the generations to come 
after us. 

You know, comrades, that our record, especially at the battle of Shiloh, 
had been so misrepresented that it seemed for a while that we should never 
recover from the effects of the untruthful reports first published by some 
reporter never nearer the battlefield than Cairo. But these misrepresenta- 
tions are being corrected as true history is written, and we have only to pre- 
serve these facts and proofs which we now have, to be able to place before 
the world a record which shall challenge comparison with any in the proud 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 15 

galaxy of Iowa regiments, of which it can truthfully be said, not one had a . 
stain upon its banner. 

Let us then, comrades, give this matter our earnest attention and com- 
plete the work at once, realizing that each successive reunion finds our ranks 
greatly depleted, and those who can furnish items desired will soon have re- 
ceived their final discharge from the active duties of life. 

Respectfully submitted, D. W. Reed, ) 

R. P. Clarkson, - Committee. 
J. D. Cole, ) 

Short talks were indulged in by the comrades present on this subject 
matter, when, upon motion, the report of the committee was accepted and 
adopted 

Comrade J. E. Simpson then offered the following: 
Mr. President and Comrades: 

"Allow me to call your attention to a matter that I think important and 
proper. It is this : That there should be appointed, some one from each 
company, whose duty it shall be to ascertain all the dates, facts and circum- 
stances connected with the death of those of their respective companies, who 
may die between the time of our holding our reunions. For instance, to 
illustrate, since our last reunion I am informed of the death of two of our 
comrades, of company "G," Archibald A. Carey, who was with us at our last 
reunion, and at that time his face showed that death had marked him for its 
owuv- He said to us on dress parade, that it would be the last time he 
would meet with us. His prediction proved true. Honest, upright, a great 
sufferer, never a well man since our bitter experience at Benton Barracks, in 
the winter of 1861. Slowly and surely he passed away, surrounded by his 
family and friends, near Castalia, Iowa. O. D. Miller, another of our com- 
rades, has died ; a plain, simple man, who did every duty well, one of those 
soldiers who was always prompt to say, " I will go, orderly." Away off in 
Nebraska he had taken him a homestead For years he had been a patient 
sufferer, never complaining, never regretting that he went to the defense of 
the Union. A comrade of good standing in his G. A. R. Post at Stuart. His 
widow writes me, as he drew near his end he had an intense longing to see 
some one of his old comrades. His heart went to those with whom he had 
camped, marched, fought and toiled, and his dying thoughts were of them. 

Now, my dear comrades, it does seem to me that this is a matter of im- 
portance and should be carefully attended to. One after another we shall 
drop away, and certainly our organization ought to take note of the little in- 
cidents and surroundings of the last sickness and death, and have it an- 
nounced at these reunions." 

Acting upon the suggestion of the foregoing the president appointed 

the following from each company : 

Company A — R. P. Clarkson, Company F — R. W. Tirrill, 
B— J. D Cole, " G— J. E. Simpson, 

C-D. W. Reed, " H— J. A. Van Anda, 

" D— J. H Stibbs, " I— J. F. Zediker, 

E-^. W. Shoemaker. " K— J. B. Morgan. 

The balance of the afternoon was given to general talk by the comrades, 

reminiscences and story telling, and after a general love feast was adjourned 

to meet again at the camp fire in the evening. 



16 THIRD REUNION OP THE 

EVENING SESSION. 

The camp fire in the evening was held at Brown's Opera House, the 
building being filled' to its utmost capacity, many being unable to gain ad- 
mission. The Waterloo cornet band enlivened the occasion with its sweet 
strains of music, and the several responses to the different toasts were inter- 
spersed with choice and approjiriate songs by the Glee Club of the city, 
whose presence added much to tiie festivities of the occasion. 

Ex-6ov. B. K. Sherman then took the stand, and delivered an appropri- 
ate and feeling address of welcome. It was wliolly extemporaneous, and no 
draft of it can be obtaiiu'd. 

Col. S. R. Edgington, president of the association, responded in the fol- 
lowing feeling speech : 

Mr. Fresideni — Ladies and Genllemen : 

On behalf of my comrades of the 12th Iowa, I thank you more than I 
liave words to express for your kind words of welcome, so beautiful and so 
comT)limentary. I want to say to the good jieople of Waterloo, that we are 
glad to be here in your beautiful and patriotic city, that gave to the 12th 
Iowa regiment the brave and fearless company "E," whose comrades touched 
elbows on many a bloody battle field. 

We remember your loyalty and devotion to the flag in our struggle for 
libertj' and union, and how nobly your heroic sous volunteered and filled up 
the ranks and left for the front and field of battle. 

Waterloo is noted for her hospitality to the boys who wore the blue. 
The city is handsomely built on both banks of the beautiful Cedar river, 
whose waters flow onward to the jNIississippi and down to the sea. 

Away back in 1861, when Waterloo was not as large and beautiful a city 
as it is to-day, I brought my comi)any (A) over from Hardin county by teams, 
for the purpose of taking the cars for our camp at Dubuque. What a cliange 
.since 1861. Then there were but few inhabitants and but one railroad. Now 
you are of many railroads and many tho^isands of inhabitants. 

Many of you will remember that about the close of the war many of our 
citizens were much troubled about what would become of society, when the 
veterans were all mustered out. It was a matter of grave apprehension to 
many of our people, especially among those who were not truly loj^al to our 
country and flag, that when this great, grand army, who had saved the liberty 
of our people, were mustered out and turned loose on society, murder, arson, 
and all manner of crimes would be committed by the old vets. How wild 
were such imaginations. When the army was mustered out and the veterans 
laid aside the musket and the sword, and returned again to their farms, their 
work-shops and all other peaceful avocations, society stepped up to a higher 
plane of civilization. My experience and observation is that our veterans 
are our best citizens. 

Your speaker has served in two wars and my observation is that any man 
who was not a good citizen, was worthless as a soldier. A good soldier always 
makes a good citizen, wherever his lot may be cast. 

When we think of who is most entitled to praise for saving the union, we 
do not think of our great generals and brilliant commanders — all honor to 
them and their noble deeds — but rather do we think of the brave men who 
carried their muskets, that stormed the trenches of Donelson and Vickfeburg, 
who stood like walls of living flame at Sliiloh and Gettysburg; and of the 
men who carried their muskets and one hundred rounds of cartridges and 
marched under Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. 



TWEIjPTH IOWA T. 



These old veterans we have with us here to the gratitude of every Amer- 
ican citizen. The men who carried and the men who followed that dear old 
fla^'. These are the men who, in 18(51, put pleading- love aside, unclasi)ed the 
dimpled hands of prattling babes fast locked about their necks, j^arted from 
wife and child because their country called. Boys who forced back tiieir 
tears, forsook a father's house and the hai)py home group, the loved jnaiden 
find the joj^s of youth, and with mother's kisses warm on their lips went to 
the field of battle, following their flag. 

When in my dreams, or when my mind dwells on army days and I think 
of those killed in battle or died in hospital, or were staryed to death in south- 
ern prison hells, I seem to hear something saying, " Comrade, we are in a 
fairer land than earth; we are in and enjoy a realm where the rainbow shines 
brightly evermore ; where the sun, moon and stars are spread out before us 
like islands, great and small, on the broad ocean of eternity ; here traitors 
never come and treason is unknown. We leave robes of blue, for robes of 
i^Tay are not used here." 

I do not endorse the attitude of our government towards the prisoners of 
war, nor have the survivors of rebel prison hells received justice from the 
government that they deserve. It seems to me they have not. 'I'he prisoners 
were allowed to suffer and die by thousands as a military necessity for the 
suppression of the rebellion. Our government was not willing to give man 
for man in exchange, and at the close of the war thousands of sick and feeble 
prisoners were discharged to die or to be nursed back to life at their own ex- 
pense, ^len wlio left Jiome and loved ones and endured without a murmur 
the privations of camp and lield. Men who stood unmoved amid the storms 
of leaden hail. Yes, brave, honorable and true men who never turned their 
backs on friend or foe. These are the men who composed the Union armj-. 
These are the men who saved our country and flag. 

No other country on the face of tlu^ earth could have survived and come 
through so fierce a war with her territory intact, with the rights and liberties 
of all her people maintained. None other but this our own Columbia, " the 
land of the brave and the free." 

These veterans of the 12th Iowa Infantry were in twenty-three battles. 
They were under the rebel fire 112 days. They marched during their term 
of service — four years and three months — 2,070 miles. They traveled by wa- 
ter and land 18,809 miles. Total number of casualties, 582. Total 
number killed in battle, 95. Total number died of disease, 2 IT. Total num- 
ber discharged for disease and wounds, 247. They were first in the fight and 
last to leave the field. They suffered in southern prison hells for more than 
six months. 

This short historical sketch is given for the benefit of those who have 
grown up since the war, that they may better know what the old veterans 
did to save our country and flag from the traitors' grasp. 

Comrades of the grand old 12th Iowa, veterans of twenty-three hard 
fought battles, behold that dear old flag again. 

With its stars and its stripes, and tlie red w^hite and blue, 
So dear to the hearts of all loyal and true ; 
The banner of our Union, the flag of the brave and the free, 
On hill top or in valley, or down by the sea. 

In peace or in war all hail to the fiag of my country wherever it waves ! 

On behalf of my comrades of the 12th Iowa, who have come here from 
all over the state of Iowa, and many of them from other states, I thank you 
again for your kind words and acts of welcome. It would be difficult to con- 
vey to you our deep feelings of appreciation for the hearty- and cordial man- 
ner in which you have approved that welcomis by your appearance in such 
large numbers and for this splendid reception. 



18^ THTRD KETTraCW OF THE 



In response to the tojist, "-"Why We Hold. Reunions," comrade S. R, 
IJurch responded as follows: 
Beloved Comrades — Ladies and Genilemen: 

"Why we hold reiiiiions," is a (luestioti easily aitswered by any member 
of the dear old 12th. Hut comrades-, ju.st why I've been selected to respond! 
to the interrogatory I'm at a loss to know, when we have such a multitude of 
orators to draw upon to do this part of the work of our reunions; work I say 
for the reason what winild be a ver^' great pleasure for some of our comrades, 
who are by profes«<imi, and wlur possess natural and acquired gifts for im- 
l)arting to others rich gems of thought, clothed with beautiful language, 
which is food for tlie intelligent mind, while I might labor and burn the mid- 
night oil and yet fail to say anything of very great interest. But as I am de- 
tailed to perform this duty, I shall attempt to give a few reasons wh)' we 
hold reunion-. 

We come together (mce in four years, to grasp the wannn hand of him 
who many times during that terrible war did so many things to make us love 
each other as members of the same household. It must be a hard heart that 
would not cement to that of his comrade who stood side by side with him in 
the ranks at Pittsburg I.anding, twenty-six years ago to-morrow. You, com- 
rades, all remember as though it were but yesterday, the beautiful, bright 
Sabbath morning, when we were preparing our camp and ecjuipments for 
Sunday morning inspection, when we heard in the distance a rumbling sound 
as of thunder, and instead of the drum corps playing "^Tlie girl I left behind, 
me," for the assembly of the companies for inspection, the long roll was 
sounded from the colonel's quarters, which brought forth the boys from their 
tents, partly clad and with bated breath and hearts beating quicker, some 
with musket in paits for cleaning, others at a brook a little way off washing 
and searching for something they had not lost — graybacks; but in less time 
than it takes to tell the story the companies were formed ; boys who were not 
able to answer to the roll-call a short hour before were now in the ranks to 
answer "here" when their names were called. The color-bearer (you all know 
him) took position and the companies were quickly formed to his right and 
left; now the rebel artillery was belching forth fire and smoke, and the rattle 
of musketry grew thicker and thicker, when the colonel's clear voice rang 
out, "battalion, right face, forAvard, double quick, march." When we had 
gone but a short distance we met hundreds of wounded and frightened sol- 
diers, wild with excitement and fear, coming from the front, who admonished 
us not to go out there for we would all be killed If you will not mention it 
I will tell you that we too Avere badly scared, but our officers undaunted led 
the way and we followed on We met the victorious enemj^ who had driven 
in our exposed regiments, and now began the conflict, terrible in carnage and 
blood ; beloved oliicers fall mortally wounded ; a brother pierced with a rebel 
bullet; a dear comrade falls, then another and another; on, on, throughout 
the long day the battle raged fiercer and more terrible ; repeatedly did the 
enemy mass his forces and charge our line, which w^e hurled back as often 
as they came, inflicting terrible loss. This position the enemy denominated, 
" The Hornet's Nest." When the rattle of musketry grew- fainter and fainter 
and farther away, both on the right and on the left, our flanks are driven in ; 
our battle line is broken ; the enemy came up in our rear, when more fierce 
than ever (if possible) the battle raged till the sun was nearly down; now be- 
ing surrounded and cut off from our forces by overwhelming numbers, w-hat 
did we do, surrender V No. The rear rank faced to the rear and opened fire 
upon the foe — Avho'soon realizing our fearful execution, charged our position 
from both front and rear. Many, very many of our brave boys fall bleeding 
and dying, and w-e who so miraculously escape the bullet, were destined to a 
more deplorable calamity, that of being overpowered and taken " prisoners 
of war," to be incarcerated in the prison pens of the south to be placed in the 
custody of a Wertz, to starve and die. 



TWE1.FTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. Ifl 

Comrades, we who survive those terrible ordeals, meet together once in 
four years to tell our wonderful stories of liardships endured, and iireet each 
other. These are some of the reasons wliy we hold (»ur reunions. Dear 
friends, do you wonder why we hold reunions V VVliat I have told you is but 
a small part, one day's experience as it were, I have told you of but one 
battle in which we were engaged. We might tell you of the suffering from 
the cold storm and hard figliting at Donelson; the fierce and unsuccessful 
charges on the strong forti.tications of Vicksburg, the capture and recapture 
of Jackson, of the battles of Corinth, Tui)elo, Nashville and Sjvanish Fort, 
The long and weary marches in all kinds of weather, on short rations; theu 
it was unsafe for a chicken to crow or a pig to squeal. Friends, do not think 
for a moment that we had no fun in the army, for the inventive ingenuity of 
the Yankee so proverbial, from the force of circumstances was brought into 
requisition, and it would take hours to tell of the many little incidents hap- 
pening to break the monotony of camp life ; and now we love to meet arid re- 
fresh our memories of the past and renew our acquaintance. Time is fast 
changing the raven hair to snowy lock.s — the bloom of youth to furrowed 
cheeks and wrinkled brow. 

When I take part in camp-lires and sham battles now and then, 
These war-like reproductions call to mind the gallant men 
Who marched and bivouacked with us; still we look for them in vain — 
We can tell you of their valor, of their records free from stain. 

They were strong and hopeful when from home they marched away ; 
Soon to learn each soldier's duty was comprised in to "obey." 
Very few knew of the heartache 'neath the uniforms of blue-. 
Some did call us over loj^al when to homes wo bade adieu. 

Even thoughtless words were spoken of the bravest volunteer — 
WTiy enlist, if ties were binding, or if homes were very dear ? 
Smile upon them brave old soldiers, ask them of the mystery. 
Why men sacrificed their life-blood for the boon of liberty. 

Then we little thought of honors intervening years have brought ; 
We were thinking of our country and the lessons patriots taught. 
Should the old flag be disfigured — lessened by a single star? 
Never! for brave men revered it, both in peace and time of war. 

Fierce and long the bitter contest ; those were anxious months and years; 
We can never reproduce them, never reproduce the tears ; 
Rank and file can shoulder rifles, epaulets be worn again. 
But no regiment can muster o/d time officers and men. 

Vain the roll call, vain the bugle, till the last loud trumpet sounds, 
There will be the grand reunion on the new plantation grounds; 
If the martyred soldiers trusted last in Him who bore the cross, 
Their's the gain, and yet while grieving we had counted It but loss, 

The last to fall was Gallegher, of D., soon all will be laid to rest ; 
But down through future ages will live brave Logan's request, 
That the graves of fallen comrades, on the 30th day of May, 
Be strewn with flowers as tokens of remembrance on that day. 

And when we hold reunions could we mufl^e the drums somewhat! 

Lest the widowed and the orphaned think their loved ones are forgot. 

And don't forget to battle for the principles of right; 

'Twill keep the banner waving and the nation's record bright ; 

For with north and south united, other nations yet will see, 

Our moral conflicts but enhance our love of liberty. 



-ff nrfRD KEx^xioN or the 



" The Horuets' Nest Brigade." Their vjUor saved tlie world's greatebt 
►•omiuaiicler. 

The response to this toast liad beeu assigued to comrade T. B. Edging- 
ton, of ]\Iemphis, Teuuesaee, but not being present the followiug letter was- 
read from him: 

MEMi'nis, Tenn., April 1st, 1888. 

Comrades of the I'Jth loira : — Circumstances have prevented my attend- 
ance at your reunion. It has been my great desire to attend this reunion, not 
only because I would meet my old comrades, but because the reunion is to- 
take phice among the liospital)le people of AVaterloo, Iowa, a people whose 
hospitidity to our comrades of the Old Twelfth was as honest and hetirtfelt 
as were the h()si)italiti"s extend 'd to us by the people of Alt(X)na, Pennsylva- 
nia, on our return from military prisons, when the living skeletons that 
frowded tlu- train, found tliemselves suddenly surprised and overwhelmed 
witii substantial food and dainty deliciu^ies, steaming hot as it came fresh 
from tlu^ kitchens of their mountain homes, to be dispensed l)y the hands of 
fair maidens amid smiles and tears. While I cannot be pri'sent afthe reun- 
ion in the Hesh, you will find me there in spirit. 

For myself I will say that time has laid his hand upon me so gently that 
I still consider myself "one of the boys," yet my step mjiy not be so elastic 
as wlien I was the file leader of the regiment, and my spirits may not be so- 
buoyant as when we sc-aled the breastworks of Donelsou. 

Finding m,yseif unable to attend the reunion, it was my purpose to write 
out iwiy response to the t(Kist assigned me, but I have not been able to do so. 

Referring, however, to the subject matter of the toast, there uever has- 
been any doubt in my mind but that the valor of the "Hornets' Nest Bri- 
gade " saved the Union army from defeat at the btittle of Shiloh. 

The Southerner, to this day, believes that Gen. Beauregard should have 
pressed on and followed up the success of the confederate army and closed 
the work of the day with a complete defeat and cai)ture of the Union army. 

No one can vindicate the good generalship of Gen. Beauregard so well 
as members of the "iloniets' Nest Brigade," who laid down their arms with 
us at G o'clock p. m., on Sunday, April 6, 18(>2. Albert Sidney Johnson, their 
commanding general, had fallen that day. The stubborn resistance and final 
capitulation of the "Ilornets' Nest Brigade" had thrown the enemy's center 
into alnK)st inextricable confusion. Beauregard found the disciplined army 
of an hour before, an army of fragments, a howling mob, which had forgot- 
ten the errand for which it came, in the exultation of a partial victoiy. 

The reorganization of the confederate army so as to make an onward 
movement that night was a physical impossibility to any new commander 
who should step into the shoes of that great general, Albert Sidney Johnson. 

History will vindicate the sound judgment and good generalship of Gen. 
Beauregard, w^hile it places the blood-bought laurel wreaths on the "-Hor- 
nets' Nest Brigade," which held the overwhelming enemy in check until 
night and Buell ctime. 

The attiick on Shiloh was made under the direction of the authorities at 
Richmond. Their plan was to demolish Grant's army before Buell's army 
could form a junction. Thereupon they would capture or destroy our trans- 
ports and gunboats ; when this was done they Avould fall upon Buell's army, 
west of Columbia, Tennessee, cut off its communications and destroy or cap- 
ture it; when this was once done there was nothing south of the Ohio river 
that could resist the victorious confederate army, and it would have become 
an army of invasion. 

The battle of Shiloh was fought when the nation was smarting under the 
humiliatimi of the Bull Run defeat, when the cry of " On to Richmond^ had 
entered upon its second season of disappointment, when the voice of the cop- 
perhead was heard in the land. If the South had been successful in its plans 
for the destruction of Grant's and Buell's armies, who can say that the Union 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. ENPANTKY, 31 

would not have perished V The jirobabilities are strongly tliat way, A reac- 
tion in public sentiment after such a series of signal defeats would pi'obably 
have demanded terms of peace at the (;ost of the nation's life. It this be so, 
tJien lias not the valor of the -Hvrnels .Vesi Bi'made" not only saved the 
•' world's greatest ajvutuuider" but has itjiot saved the world's greatest y/^/Zo //.'-' 
These are questions that we M'ill submit for your consideration. If you can- 
not solve them, posterity will form its own' unbiased conclusions. History 
doubtless will point its index linger at the "■ Horuels'' M'st Jiriijade,'" tuj one of 
the agencies which was indispensable to the natiou'.s life. 

\\"\\\\ cordial greetings for the survivors of tho old l:.Hh, and Co. "A" in 
particular, I am, as ever, your old comrade, T. li. EDGIIS'GTOj^. 

" Was the War Worth the Sacrifice," One country, one Hag and ukhc 
stars. 

Col. IX B. Henderson was to have responded to this toa.st, but as his con- 
gressional duties detained him at W^ashiugton, Capt. E. B. Soper was called 
upon to fill his place. As no reporter was present to take his remarks, whicli 
were extemporaneous, w^e are unable to give but a synopsis, as follow*;; 

" He first considered the money cost of the war to the Federal govern- 
ment, and used illustrations to give some idea of the immense treasure ex- 
l)ended, and e-stimated that the cost to the Southern State.s, with the property 
destroyed by tlie ra\'ages of w^ar, fully equaled expenditures of the North — 
to which should be added the lo.ss of life, the unmeasured suffering on bat- 
tlefields and in hos]ntals, of the sick and wounded, the tears and' heartrend- 
ing anguish of wives, mothers and sisters, and all the miseries of the bloody 
and long continued strife, the immeasurable sum total of which constituted 
the sacrifices the war cost. Against this he put, the country preserved as a 
unit— four million slaves. made free, their masters and the white peoi^le of 
the slave .states likewise made free, the better feeling existing between the 
sections resulting fi'om the changed condition in the new South, and the 
mighty strides made in educating the whole people up to a better compre- 
hension of the worth of our institutions by the severe schooling of the war ; 
all these and others were brought forward, considered and illustrated at 
some length, and the andiencei,then left, by the speaker, to decide whether 
the war was worth what it cost." 

" Home When the Boys Were Away." The dark days of 1861 to 1865. 

This toast was eloquently responded to by Mrs. E. J. W. Tirrill, wife of 
comrade R. W. TirHll, of Co. "F," in the following manner : 

"The time had come, when brothers inusil fight aud t^iBtei-.s must pray at home." 

These familiar lines from an old army song, bring the long past to our 
very doors. Again the drum and fife are heard in our streets-, the recruiting 
officer is abroad in our land ; they are raising libertj' poles in every town 
prominent or obscure, and speeches full of the spirit of '76 are kindling an 
enthusiasm none too soon. Young America is present, and understands the 
situation, and from that time henceforth the love of liberty and regard for 
the stars aud stripes are a part of his education. It is well to mention these 
days either in song or story ; thus may they learn that a government builded 
ever so well, must needs be ktpt in repair Therefore, I can but think it 
profitable to sometimes look back. 



'-^2 TKIKO RETDWiaN OF THET 



The presence of these flags with their inscriptions, their folds bearing 
Uie hoiuired stamp of service, the memories they recall naturally take us 
back more tlum a ([uurter ol a century, when the grandest laniily or States on 
the gloUe coukl name its traitors, liut an all-wise Providence had not for- 
saken us, and if the godof battles idlo\vedthe fetters of war with their devasta- 
tions to entold us for a time, was it not that great good should residt to us, 
as a people, in obliterating from this unity, nu)re tnan two centuries of bond 
service 'i 

'i'here are hundreds of volumes of histories of the war and its times, of 
botii public and private lile, but what of the unwritten history of the loyal 
women of our nation, during those terrible years, trom '(il to Co, and where 
is tliere one tlial regrets any sacrifice tor such a cause V When our fathers., 
husbands and hrotliers went forth to lace tn<' enemy did we say with the Ko- 
inan matxon, •• uring back thy sword or come not back to usV" Mo; but "Go, 
and wlien (Uity is done, if there is body enough left to coutjun the soul, we'll 
welcome you Home." 

I'lius lUey went, with our prayers,, and heaven's blessing as a guiding star.. 

Did our Hands assist them wiieu preptiring for departure? They will 
tell you. Did we do the best we could when they were gone 'i 1 will tell 
you. W'e must ri'inember that times were different in Iowa then from now.. 
Jlost of us lived on farms, and the State was coinpai-atively new,, and if our 
brothers, too young to join the army, needed us to help nusk the corn, we 
went, and continued to go till all was gjithered. We did most of our house- 
work in the evenings, ;uid mended our gloves for ne.\t day's husking, for our 
hands were not accustomed to out-door toil. Ikit the emergenc}' ot the case 
developed new capabilities; how much we could do that we little dreamed 
of before. If our help was wanted "in the tield where the sugarcane grew'," 
there we could be found. If the house called for ptunt, we painted it. If 
the grove reciuired pruning, it was done. Or when the o.\en were yoked and 
the younger brothers were starting for the timber four or live miles away, 
did we ever go with them to keep them company, to add cheer to labor V 
They could tell you; for fuel must be had, for the terrible northern winter 
was before us with its ik^ep snows and desolation. Thus we managed, and- 
liunger was kept from the door and comforts were not altogether wanting. 
Have we forgotten how the drifting snows would delay tlie trains^ luid days 
would pass and no news from the seat of w;u- V And after a battle where our 
I2th Iowa added a glorious page, to theirs and Iowa's history, can we tell the 
first news the papers brought for us "missing;" but the sequel told us net 
forever. And for some the missive read, "right arm gone," and for others, 
"dead !" Alas, how many mothers, wives, sisters and sweethearts, watched 
for the letter that never came. Three yeaxs since I stood by my soldier 
brother's grave in the National cemetery near New Orleans. There, with 
thousands of others, away from their kiudi'ed, where — 

Graceful palms and clinging vines, 
"Waving moss and Southern pines, 
Seem like sentinels, ever watching 
Where they sleep. 

If there iy anj' hallowed ground on this.continent, is it not the last rest- 
ing place of our boys that wore the blue V Not only in the North were we 
helping with our relief societies, but when news came of a battle, and nurses 
were wanted, where were many of our women found? If Em-ope had her 
Florence Nightingale, w^e had many, 

"Whom the wounded blest for their tender care. 
And named them as saints in their evening prayer. 
Kissing their shadows, did they fall 
Across their pillows from off the wall." 

Nameless the price of their labors 1 NeVer, this side of the silent city, 
will they their just reward receive. 



tw:el,t^th lowx t. v. iistaiSitiiv. 



All this is piist, and no wonder we were victorious and the stars and 
stripes jet live — tor God and the women were f^r us. There have b'^eu times 
in the history of our country when the Adruiuistratior, looked not upon the 
soldier with contempt; he was honored witli pixsitions of trust. Is it so to- 
^ayy Do not former traitors sit in high places and laugh from their vantage 
grounds Yet we ai-e not disheartened nor faithless, believing that the aut- 
umn of 1888 will name a chief magistrate whose love of country and loyalty 
to the govej-nment may be assured by his regard for all faithful Lnion. sol- 
diers. In conclusion let me say, if I for one moment forget what the 
dear old tlag coiit, I have onlj to look at three pictures They are not fnuned,- 
they are forever on memory's walls. The lir.st, our national cemeteries. The 
second, our boys as they were sent home from hospitals and battle fields, 
with limbs gone or useless, with sightless eyes and health forever wrecked. 
If tuigels ever weep, here is fitting occasion for their tears. The third and 
last, a picture where the eye of pily would be dimmed with horror and the 
hand of the artist be powerless — Libby and Anderson ville. 



"The Broomstick Mightier than the Sword," It always rules the in- 
fantry- 
Major D. W. Reed responded to this toast in the following happy manner: 
,¥/'■ FresidenU Comrades, Ladie.s and Gentlemen: — 

To me has been assigned ''The Broomstick Mightier than the Sword. It 
Always Rules the Infantiy." I confess that this is not the first time, by any 
means, that the Broomstick has been assigned to me. But how the commit- 
tee discovered that I was especially well informed about the subject is more 
than I can tell. 

We know from experience that the sword is the most inoffensive of the 
weapons of war. We know that it never " hewed the way to the gulf," that 
Wellington and Napoleon did not "measure swords at the battle of Waterloo," 
that it was not the "flaming sword of Sheridan that drove Early from the 
valley," that bayonets even w^ere more terrible in story than in actual use, 
and never won the battles of Gettysburg or the Wilderness, but that powder 
and balls from musket and cannon's mouth were the effective agents in win- 
ning battles. 

Nevertheless, the sword, by common consent, has come to be the repre- 
sentative of the executive ixjwer of man. 

In like manner the pen, of itself, has never been a mighty agent in con- 
trolling the nations of the earth, but the brain, the thoughts of man, have been 
symbolized by the pen, and ever since the foundations of the first govern- 
ment were laid, there has been a contest between these great forces that to- 
gether control the actions and thoughts of men, and "which is greater, the 
pen or the sword," has been discussed in school, on the rostrum and in legis- 
lative halls, in every age of the past, and the illustrous examples of Alexan- 
der, Frederick the Great, Napoleon and Washington, who formed Empires 
and established Republics at the head of armies, have been contrasted with 
that of Cicero, Bacon, Franklin and Jefferson, who by their philosophy taught 
the principles on which those Empires and Republics were founded, and 
wrote the laws which governed and sustained them. 

In our own time we still have the discussion, as to which was greater^ 
the immortal pen of Lincoln that wrote the emancipation pi-oclamation de- 
claring freedom to four million slaves, or the all-conquering sword of Grant 
that executed that decree and struck the shackles from the last bondsmali in 
this land and made our nation what it had so long professed to be, free, with- 
out a stain upon its banner. 

Thus through all ages these two instruments representing the powers 
which men wield have been contending for supremacy, and the arguments, 
like equal weights in evenly balanced scales, have held the matter in equal 
poise. A simple contest, man contending against man- 



"i"^ TiiiKiy KKCiSTour OF me 



It Ikls bet'ii rostrvod lor a comniitteo of the 13th Iowa to introdiu-e ;i new 
elenu'iit into the c-oiitroversy, and woiiuin's jivtiuence in the jrov(>rnniental al- 
fairs of the world ha.s been i)roposed under the synilx)! of the l^roonustick. 

Now, I know, and some of you know, that the hroonistick is by no means 
woman's only weapon of olfenee and defenee. Tlu' bald-heads before me— 
('specially those of some of the eommittee— remind me that tliey possibly had 
in mind som<' more etlieient weai)on when they proposed this toast, but dared 
not attack it themselves. Hut, comrades, from my experience I can give you 
«ome valual)le advice. Hide the poker, call a truce on hot water a^id halr- 
pulliuir, buy a soft-handled broom for your wife — for, like the sword, it is a 
liarmless weapon; a little arnica heals the wound.s. and is cheaper than hair 
restoratives. 

Yet, comrades, while the broomstick is letiRt to be feared of wimian'.- 
w'eapons, it luis come to be a symbol of wonian's int1neru;e in controlling the 
affairs ())' government. And from the time when Cleopatra and .losephine. 
by their influence, ruled the men who commanded the armic^s, to our own 
time, wiii'n out ))!itriotic women, Spartan like, sent their husband.s, brothers 
and s(>n.s, to the field to do battle for their ctnmtry, and with their broom- 
sticks gallantly held in check the cov»l>erheads in the rear, woman has grad- 
ually arisen under the civilizing influences of the Cliristiau religion, from a 
position of slavery to one where she has tak^'u her i)lace by the side of man 
in every avenut^ of iiuliiic life; and it is re;dly a question worthy our discus- 
sion whether woman does not to-day wield a mightier influence in executing^ 
the laws than does man. In the great reforms she has surely shown her 
ability and willingness to grapple with the serious questions of State and 
Natioiwd government, and has won for herself a place on mtm's level, at least 
in execuling the laws, and fully his equal with the pen, with which she has 
created the public sentiment that has made the laws. And as she in her 
proi>i>r sphere has the moulding and directing of the infant mind, whether 
it be to wield. the pen or tlie sword, she has undoubtedly proven her ability 
to rule not oidy the infantry, the ctivalry and ai'tiller}', but kings, emi)erors,. 
presidents and the world. We tlierefore acknowledge the l)r(M>mstick might- 
ier than the sword, and gladly yield to Avoman that all-powerful emblem of 
her influence and authority, and promise never again to dispute its suprema- 
cy, even with the sword. 

"The Iowa Soldier's Home.'" A grateful state proixdly acknowledges 

,her indebtedness. 

This toast was responded to by comrade Ben. E. Eberhart, of Co. " E,'" 

HOW quartermaster at the Soldiers' Home at Marshalltown ; 

Who of you, my comrades, does not still remember the soldiers' homres- 
of 1861 to 18()5, the homes that we left when we took up arms in defense of 
oqr country, and when weary with marching we wrajiped ourselves in our 
blankets and slept, and saw in our dreams the faces of loved ones at home 2 
Or on the lonely picket post liow^ the thoughts would wander back to the 
Xorth, and ho\v we endeavored to picture a dear mother, loving wife and 
children, or sweetheart, and we wondered what they were doing; how we 
laid plans for the future, as to what we would do if we were spared to returtt 
to the loved ones at home ; and, finallj', when the war was ended and we were 
permitted to lay aside the habiliments of war and again resume those of 
peace, with what zeal each took up that which had been laid aside four long 
years before, fully determined to make up for the time that we had lost in 
the peaceful pursuits of life. All this AA'e well ren>ember. Some of you 
have succeeded, but many have failed, through no fault of their own. They 
started on the march as zealously as any, their hopes and aspirations Avere as 
great as yours, but disabled by A\'ounds and disease they were unable to keep 
up with their comrades and finally fell out of ranks and became stragglers, 
and many became homeless and destitute, some took refuge in the National 
Homes and others found their Avay to the poor house. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INPAKTRY. 



Through the medium of the G. A. R., the Iowa Legishxture was informed 
of the needs of these comrades, and a bill was passed by the 21st General 
.isseml)l3' apiirojiriating $100,000 to build a State {Soldiers' Home. The Gov- 
ernor appointed six comrades, with that staunch and ever faithful fi-iend of 
tlu" soldier. Gen. J. M- Tuttle, at the head, as a noard of Commissioners to 
superintend the erection, and ;is tru.stees of the Home. 

The site selected is a high i)iece of gTound just northwest of the city of 
Marshalltown, on the banks of the Iowa liiver. The grounds consivst of 128 
acres, about twenty of whicli are beautiful urove. The building is of brick 
jmd stone, is 318 feet front with wings 120 feet deep, and four stories higli 
It cost !j;(i;;),700 and was dedicated on the iJOth o^' last November and opened 
for the reception of inmates on the 1st day of December. On the lower floor 
are the O, M. and cnniniissruy department, kitchen, dining rooms, smoking 
and bath room, and l-iundry. The next iloor above is tlie chajiel, Jiospital, 
headquarters, library and reading rooms, ladies' and gentlemen's reception 
rooms, commander's living roimis and three sleeping rooms. The two stories 
above are sleeping rooms. The sleeping apartments are large dormitories 
containing from 16 to 24 beds. They are furnislied with single iron bed- 
steads, woven wire springs, cotton mattressos, pillows, sheets and blankets. 
Each inmate has a wardrobe large enough to contain all of his effects. 

The accommodations are ample for oOO inmates. '1 he entire building is 
heated by steam and lighted by gas. Althouuh in no sense an applicant for 
the place. Col. Milo Smith, of Clinton, Iowa, was the unanimous choice of 
the commissioners for the position of commandant. . Col. Smith was Colonel 
of tiie 26th Iowa Infantry, is a cajsable business man, and seems to be pecul- 
iarly adaj^ted for the position. He demands obedience to the rules adopted 
for the health and comfort of the inmates, but with that degree of kindness 
and consideration that commands the respect of all. 

The inmates i)ass the time smoking, playing cards, checkers, domiiioes, 
and kindred games, telling old army experiences, and, in fact, holding one 
continuous camp-tire, always ready and willing to favor and assist comrades 
more decrepit than themselves, evincing at all times that comradeship un- 
derstood by none but the volunteer soldier. 

There, my comrades, are gathered in a comfortable home over 130 old 
veterans, who with arms of iron and fingers of steel helped to fill the breach 
on many a contested field; who climbed the giddy heights of Lookout Moun- 
tain, charged tlie slippery slope with Grant at Vicksburg, marched with 
Sherman from Atlanta to the sea, rode with Sheridan in the Shenandoah 
Valley, fought among the blood-sjiattered tombstones of Gettysburg, and 
helped us save the day in the " Hornets' Nest " at Shiloh ; who gave their 
health freely for the preservation of national unity and for the old flag. Com- 
rades who have lost their haversacks in the march of life, but who are no 
longer homeless or destitute, but will be the welcome guests of a grateful 
State until the long roll shall beat and they shall answer to their names as 
members of that Grand Army above, commanded hy the Great Captain of the 
universe. 

" Co. Q." Always Ready for Duty and Double Rations. 

Comrade P. II. Ketchum responded as follows : 

Cotnrade.s, Ladies and GenUemen: 

Most people have a very mistaken idea of the character of Co. Q. They 
seem to be of the opini(m that Co. Q were the roughs of the army. Friends, 
this was not the case. A soldier who was always ready for duty and double 
rations, was a good soldier; and Co. Q, always ready for duty, was composed 
of -the very best soldiers in the Union army. Co. Q was also the largest com- 
pany in the army. It was composed of companies, regiments, brigades, di- 
visions, and whole army corps belonged to company Q. There was one corps 
in particular, comrades, it may be some of you remember them; they used 
to be known as "Old Smith's Guerillas." They were always ready for duty 



26 THIKD KEUNIOK OF THE 

If they were ordered to cliarge and take a battery, they took it; if tliey were 
ordered to charge the enemy's works, they took tliem; if they were ordered 
to hold a position on tlie field of battle, they held it. C'ompany Q seldom got 
what the boys used to call "a soft snap," (doing garrison duty or something 
of that kind.) No, their .serviees w(ire too valuable for duty of that kind. 
They were always at the front, or on the uiari'li. Vou remember, conirailes, 
that on some of our marches, the conunissary used to cut our rations down 
to oiu'-half, and sometimes less. It was just* so in company C^; but that made 
no difference to them. If our commissary was unal)le to furnish the required 
rations, the southern confederacy had to. Co. Q was always ready for duty 
when they \ver(> compelled to draw rations from the southern confederacy. 
This, however, they never resorted to when it was not a military necessity. 
Comi)any Q never did anything by halves. After they had served about, 
two years they could see by the way things uM/re progressing, that the war 
couldnot be l)rought to a close in another year; they began to think of re- 
enlisting, and when tiu' proijosilion was made to those old battle-scarred vet- 
erans to re-enlist, every man in company (^ enlisted. They were going to see 
the rebellion put down, and the government restored, and they did it. The 
war could not have been brought to an honorable close without the aid of 
company Q. They had the best officers that ever wore soldier straps; they 
never saw the boys do anjthing wrong. l'|)on one occasion, after a hard 
day's march in tiie State of .Mississijipi, the day had been hot and the roads 
dusty, comj)any C^ was very tired and hungry, 'as they had been on half ra- 
tions for several days ; they had tiled off of the road to go into camp. The 
Colonel had taken his position in front of the regiment, was casting his eye 
up and down the line to see if each company was in position and ready to 
stack arms; one of the boys saw a luscious looking porker only a few rods 
away; he stepped out of the ranks a few paces, covered Mr. porker with his 
musket, hesitated a moment, cast his eye. at the Colonel to see if he was go- 
ing to reprimand him or give him the order to tire ; the C^olonel seemed to be 
waiting for something, so the comrade tired; he fell back, took his place in 
the ranks, and the Colonel gave the command, stack arms. In a short time 
Col. Stibb's darkey was frying some nice slices of ham, and if the Colonel 
had been asked where that ham came from, he would have known no more 
about it than the Czar of Russia. 

Comi)any Q could always be depended upon. On one occasion a detach- 
ment of company Q, consisting of the Kith corps, had been ordered to Nash- 
ville, Tennessee, to reinforce Gen. Thomas against Gen. Hood. They arrived 
there on or about December 1st, 1804, the day after the battle of Franklin, 
one of the hardest fout;ht battles of the war. Gen. Schotield's retreating 
army was arriving, and taking a position around the city of Nashville ; great 
excitement prevailed in the city; the citizens were of the opinion that Gen. 
Hood would be in possession of thre city before night. This detachment of 
company Q was disembarked and marched to the front, took a position where 
there had been some hastily made ritle pits. During the afternoon General 
Thomas asked Gen. Smith if he felt satisfied that his men could hold his part 
of tlie line. Gen. Smith rejjlied, " If it were not for the ritle pits, all hell 
could not drive my men from their position." As I said before, company Q 
never did anything by halves. I will have to tell you of an incident that 
took place down in Tennessee ; it was after Gen. Hood had been driven from 
Nashville, and company Q had followed him for about ten days, over worse 
roads than were ever seen in Iowa; on December 24, 1804, went into camp, 
with orders that they would not move the next day ; that being the case they 
proposed having a Christmas dinner, and they had one, and a good one, too. 
Quite late in the afternoon on that Christmas day a farmer came into camp 
and enquired for headquarters. Company Q was always civil to strangers ; 
he was very politely directed to the headquarters of Gen. A. J. Smith, the 
commander of the i()th corps, who listened very attentively to all the griev- 
ances the farmer had to relate in regard to boys taking his pigs, chickens, 
turkeys, etc., when the General gravely asked, " did theytake all you had ?" 
The farmer replied, " no, they did not take all I had, but they took a lieap o' 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 27 

'em." " Then it was not my boys," said the General, "you will have to go 
somewhere else for redress." The boys just loved that old white-haired 
General. They thouijht a good deal of all their olHcers, without, it may 1)e, 
rare e.xceptions, and the officers thought a great deal of their men. Compa- 
ny Q often had very strict orders against foraging, even when they thought 
it a military nece.ssity. Upon one occasion they were on a march in .Missou- 
ri ; rations, as usual on a march, were scarce ; as soon as they had gone into 
camp one night, a captain had been out to get rails for a bed, and as he came 
back, said, "there is a fat vnU in that pasture." That's all that was said, and 
the captain had veal for supper. Company Q was always ready for duty and 
double rations. It was comiiany Q that saved Gen. Grant and his army at 
•Shiloli. It was company Q that "led Gen. Slierman to the sea. It was com- 
l)any Q who put down the rebellion and saved the nation; and the little rem- 
nant that is left of them to-day, are among our best citizens, and are still bat- 
tling for right and justice. 

" The Citizens of Waterloo." Your patriotism and hospitality will live 
in our memories forever. 

This toast was responded to by Col. J. H. Stibbs, in a very appropriate 
mannei*, a copy of which we have been unable to procure. 

The concluding of the camp-fire was the singing of " Marching Through 
Georgia," by the audience. 



Friday Mokning. 

This is the anniversary of the battle of Shiloh, and as the boys who com- 
posed part of the " Hornets' Nest Brigade " on that memorable day, greeted 
each other in the morning, they naturally referred to the contrast between 
that day and this, and then began the telling of incidents both laughable and 
sorrowful. 

The exercises of the forenoon were held in Goodman's Opera House, on 
the west side of the river, and the i)resident called the association to order 
promptly at 9 o'clock. 

After prayer had been offered the association first proceeded to the se- 
lection of a place for the holding of the next reunion. 

The committee appointed for this purpose then reported through com- 
rade J. E. Simpson, whose home is now at Norfolk Neb., as follows: 

Mr. President and Cunirades: 

Your committee would like to have an expression from the regiment as 
to the time and place of holding our next reunion. It has been suggested 
that it be held at Sioux City, and I favor that. There are a large number of 
the regiment scattered through Nebraska, Dakota, Kansas, and • States and 
Territories west that it would accommodate very much to have our next re- 
union at that point. 

I have no authority from anyone to extend the hospitality of that city, 
but I know a number of the citizens, and from what I know of them and 
their mode of receiving visitors to their beautiful city, I have no hesitation 
in saying to you that if you will locate our next reunion there, Sioux City 
will give you a warm and hearty welcome. 

C!ome over on the Missouri slope, see our beautiful country, our immense 
farms, our great Missouri, and we will show you, from the blufEs of you'- 
state, a glimpse, like the man of old at the promised land of Nebraska. It 



~S rrrrHD kecvion of tifk 



will be as a new book opened up unto you, who have always lived on the 
^lississippi. 

I pk'.id not in behalf of us, who arc here at this reunion; we sliall bo :it 
the next reunion if we live, phu-e it wiiere you may, but I appeal in behalf 
of your couirades wlio arc livinii- nortli, soutii. and west of Sioux City. To 
many of them it lias been impossible to meet with you in the past, on account 
of 1 he lonjr distance to be traveled and the expenses to b<' incurred. Come 
over and meet us half way, t 'st the hospitality of the "Corn Palace city of 
the West. Don't l)e afraid but what yr>u will be welcome, and I pledge you 
that every conxrade livin,-r west of the Missouri, will be i)resent at the reun- 
ion in 1H«J2, at Sioux City; though their pockets be not tilled with much gold 
or silver, you will find their hearts to bo as large a.s their farms, and none of 
them have loss than a quart(>r section. 

In urging this I do not forgot our good, warm-hearted friends at Man- 
chester. Wo are simply going visiting, and tiien we will come home again, 
for after our pleasant and happy meeting in 1880 and 1884, .Manchester will 
ever remain as a Jiome to the l2th Iowa. 

I now move you, .Mr. President, that the next reunion of our regiment 
be hold at Sionx City, Iowa. 

The claims of Sioux City were strongly urged by the comrades from the 

West, and much di.scussion followed, when the following telegram was read 

from Mayor Cleveland, of that city: 

Sioux City, Iowa, April (i, 1888. 
To Join} Weaver and I). I). McCanii, Memhers 12th Iowa: 
Will do all w(> can to make things pleasant for you. 

J. CLEVELAND, Mayor. 

Upon a vote being taken the comrades from the east gracefully refrained 
from voting and allowed those from the west to satisfy theii own preferences 
in the matter, and accordingly Sioux City was selected on the first ballot.* 

Comrade John N". Weaver, of company D, feelingly urged the claims of 
Sioux City, and it might not be out of place to here append his letter to Sec- 
retary Dunham, after his return home, on the subject : 

Sioux City, Iowa, April 8, 1888. 
Lt. A. Dunluuu, Manchester, Iowa: — My Dear Sir and Comrade: — 

Don't entertain any misgivings about the kindly reception of the old l!2th 
at Sioux City. I urged tl,ie claims of Sioux City specially in behtilf of the 
boys in Nebraska and elsewhere, who had followed the "Star of Empire," 
and because I hieir Sioux City would ahrays do the "square thing" by the 
soldier. Our i)eoi)lo are well pleased and will welcome you. 

Very truly and fraternally, JOHN N. WEAVEIi. 

We also add his letter to the Sioux City Jonrnah on the subject, under 
date of April 10, 1888 : 

To the Editor of the Journal : — The next reunion of the 12th Iowa Infan- 
try, four 3'ears hence, l)eing fixed to be held at Sioux City, will you indulge 
me by i)ublishing in reference to it a little that may be of interest to you, the 
citizen soldiers and citizens of the city generally. 

The first quadrennial reunion of the old Twelfth (of which I had the 
honor of being a member) was held eight years ago, at Manchester, Iowa. 
Steps Avere then taken and effected four years later, at our second reunion, 
l)y which the survivors of the regiment are incorjiorated under the laws of 
the State. You, having been a soldier, can appreciate, perhaps, the i)leasure 
of meeting the boys who stood "shoulder to shoulder" in the sjune regiment 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



29 



and companies during the war — "drank from the same canteen" — stood by 
each other when sick, wounded or in prison. While I entertain the kindliest 
and most brotherh' feeling toward every soldier of 'Gl to 'Oo, yet for genuine 
enjoym-nt i believe there is nothing so cheers the heart of the soldier as to 
meet those of his own regiment and company with whom he shared the same 
hardships, trials, dangers\ hard tack and "sovv belly," and with whom he per- 
sonally became acciuainted and learned to love during the dark days "that 
tried men's souls." Every one can relate some story or joke about his com- 
rade that not only interests the boys of his regiment but every listener. 

The selection of Sioux City was made lor the next reunion specially for 
the convenience of the members of the regiment who have followed "the 
star of empire" since the war, and have located in Nebraska, Kansas, Dakota 
and Noithwestern Iowa. These "boys" involuntarily looked to Hioux City 
as the most accessible point to effectuate such a purpose, and, though I had 
not conferred with our people, I knew and felt tliat from the well-known 
hospitality of Sioax City i)eople 1 was entirely safe in "inviting" the next re- 
union to the Corn Palace city. I being the onlj'^ representative present from 
Sioux City at our reunion la^t week at Waterloo, and assuring "the boys" 
they would receive a royal welcome. 

Our practice has been at these reunions to have a "headquarters" at one 
of the hotels, and the rest of the "boys" distribute themselves at the hotels 
ad Ubiliim "at reduced rates." \Ne do not "cam]) out," but hold our meetings 
in a suitable hall, where everybody is free to go and is gladly received. We 
have been royally received at Manchester and Waterloo at our former meet- 
ings, but I believe Sioux City will witness the grandest reunion of them all. 

We have plenty of oratorical ability on the part of the regiment to speak 
for it, among whom I might mention Col. Henderson, of Dubuque, as one. 
For story telling. Col. "Jack" Stibbs, of Chicago, is a distinguished represen- 
tative of the regiment. I mention these names as only an indication of the 
fun that may be expected. We have other formidable rivals for even these. 

We have the best ability in Sioux City in these respects to meet the boys 
of the Twelfth half way. Respectfully, JOHN N. WEAVER. 

The committee appointed to nominate officers for the next reunion then 
reported the following : 

President — Major D. W. Reed, of Waukon, loAva. 

Vice President — J. N. Weaver, of Sioux City, Iowa. 

Secretary — Capt. E. B. Soper, of Emmetsburg, Iowa. 

Treasurer— Dr. James Barr, of Algona, Iowa. 

Executive Committee — The above officers with addition of J. E. Simp- 
son, of Norfolk, Nebraska. 

Upon motion the report of the committee was adopted and the foregoing 
duly declared elected for the next reunion, and Major D. W. Reed was con- 
ducted to the president's chair, and duly acknowledged his thanks in a very 
short and appropriate speech. 

Comrade R W. Tirrill, chairman of the committee on resolutions, then 
reported the following: 

Resolved, That we extend to the citizens of Waterloo our heartfelt thanks 
for their genial hospitality and hearty greetings extended us, and for the 
kindly interest taken to make our reunion so successful, and to add to our 
comfort while in their beautiful city. 

Reaohedt That we greatly appreciate the attendance of so many fellow 
comrades at this, our third reunion, and that we bid our absent comrades all 
hail in the battle of life, with an earnest hope that they will fight a good fight 
and go down into the last ditch with the colors flying. 



30 TUIRD KEUXrON OF THE 



Rf'solrerl, That we are unalterably In favor of pensioning all di.-abled 
Union soldicr.s without rel'orencc to date of disability. Tliis we ask as a mat- 
ter of justice to the disabled soldiers and as a lesson to future generations, 
that a strong government of the people realizes its indebtedness to tho-^e who 
so heroiealiy sacrificed home and friends to save the government in its 
weakness. 

Unsolved, That we deeply sympathize with Comrade Dunham and family 
in their sad IxTcavemenl througii tlie recent death of their ;(>ved daughter, 
Florence L Dunham, who was adoi)ted as the daughter of lliis regiment at 
our first reunion. A bright, loving and dutiful daugliter on earth, siie now 
waits with kindred spirits none before to welcome us to the life beyond the 
borderland of earthly troubles. 

Resolifd, 'I'hat the heartfelt sympathies of this association be extended 
to comrades Knee and ("omstock in the sad loss of their alTectionate and be- 
loved wives, since our last reunion. May their pathway be so brightened 
througii the balanc(^ of their days that the irreparable loss they have sustain- 
ed may be liglitened upon them. 

Resolrcd. That our sympathies are also extended to sister Rebecca Otis, 
who mourns the death ol lier husband, John Otis, late of Co. F, and whose no- 
ble work in the hospitals during the war will ever be remembered by the 
surviving members of the I2th Iowa. May her jiathway be easy through life. 

Kcsolrcd, Tliat we gratts'uUy ai)preciate the fostering care of the people 
of Iowa in their eiforts to provide for disabled soldiers by the erection of the 
Iowa Soldiers' Home, at ^larshalltown, and we respectfully ask a sufficient 
aitjiropriation by the Legislature now in session to complete everything nec- 
essary for the comi'ort of the inmates and maintenauc^e of the Soldiers' Home 
during the current biennial period. 

The report of the committee was adopted by a rising vote.^ 
A committee composed of Comrades R. W. Tirrill, G. H. Morisey, and 
Abner Dunham was selected to publish the proceedings of the reunion in 
pamphlet form, and to send copies to all members of the regimental associa- 
tion who have paid up their quadrennial dues of f 1 00 each. 

The hour for dinner having arrived, the meeting was adjourned to con- 
vene promptly at 1 :30 in the afternoon. 



Friday Afternoon. 



Upon being called to order Comrade J. E. Simpson then submitted the 
following eulogy : 
Mr. President and Comrades: 

The sad and painful duty has been assigned to me of announcing to you 
the death of the " Daughter of our Regiment," Florence L. Dunham, at her 
father's home, in Manchester, Feb. 24, 1888, of typhoid fever. 

Those of you who were present at our first reunion, at Manchester, eight 
years ago, will remember the little girl, then only about eight years old, who 
came out on the platform and commenced to recite a poem, written by her 
mother, the wife of our beloved comrade and mo.st worthy secretary, Abner 
Dunham, commencing, " I love the brave old soldier." How pretty and in- 
teresting she looked. Glancing up and seeing the great sea of faces she became 
embarrassed, burst into tears, touching every heart present. Some M-arii; 
hearted comrade sjirang up and moved she be adopted as " The Daughter of 
the Regiment," and it was carried by a unanimous and hearty vote. 

Those who were with us four years ago will remember the beautiful, 
sprightly girl, who had a warm hearty hand-shake and welcome for each 
12th Iowa man present. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V, INFANTRY. 31 

•'The Mancukstek Press," in amioiiiicing- her death in the columns of 
llir.t ])aper, speaks in words and tones that found a response in tlie heart of 
eaeli oae ol' us, as foHows: "Last week, when we went to press, it was 
thought that Florence Dunham was improving, with a fair eluinee for recov- 
ery. But tlje next morning her disease t(K)k an unfavorable turn, and Friday 
evening, tin- ^4th of February, alter most intense suffering, she was released 
from worldly pains and troubles. Her death, so sudden and unexpected, will 
bring sorrow to many outside her immediate circle of friends. All over Iowa, 
and in distant states, there ax-e those who will grieve at the news of her de- 
cease, 'i'he members of the I welfth Iowa, who attended the tirst reunion of 
the regiment in this city, will n-mcmber the sweet-faced, modest little girl, 
who .stood upon the platform and i-ecited the poem written for the occasion, 
in a maimer which captivated all hearts, yince that time, Florence Dunham 
had been the veritable " Child of the Regiment." And in every corner of 
the land, wherever one of the veterans of the Twelfth Iowa is to be found, 
there will be found a sincere mourner for the loss of the fair girl who was 
loved I)y all. Just at the threshold of womanhood, that she should thus be 
taken from family and friends, from a life in which she delighted, and in 
which she gave ])romise of happio'ss and usefulness — all seems hard to bear. 
The funeral took ])!ace at the house, on Sunday, conducted by Rev. B. M. 
Amsden, and uotwith.^anding the bitter weather, was largely attended." 

Darling sweet Florence, just budding into womanhood, looking with 
pleasant anticipations to this coming reunion and the meeting with the old 
veterans of her regiment, to whom she bid lair in time to come, when our 
members grow less, to become a veritable daughter indeed. God has seen 
tit to take her to himself. Members of the 12th were there to meet her on 
the other shore. She will be there to welcome us as we, one after the other, 
answer the last "roll call" to be "mustered in" to that better land, where kin- 
dred spirits can meet and mingle, not as here, years apart and for a few pass- 
ing hours and th.^n separate, but for all time to come. 

Beautiiui loving daughter, we bid thee farewell until we meet. 

To our beloved comrade and his dear wife Ave tender our most heartfelt 
sA'uipathies and mingle our tears with them in this hour of affliction and sor- 
row. The ligiit has gone from their home. We bow in humble submission 
to the fiat of Him who gave and taketh away. 

Th*^ balance of the afternoon to the time of parade w'as given to short 
speeches and story-telling by comrades Simp.sou, Grannis, Henderson, Helen 
Viola, VanAnda, Zediker, Woods, Thompson, Nagle, Gift, Soper and others. 

At 5 o'clock the comrades were formed in line for a grand parade, there 
being 160 of the old veterans in the ranks by companies, and proceeded to 
march through the principal streets to the grounds, where they were formed 
in line for a grand dress parade, when the following order was read by adju- 
tant Burch : 

Headguaiiers, 12th Iowa Infantrih Waterloo, Iowa, Tlpril 6, 1888. 
General Order A'o- 99, to the Surviving Members of the 12th Iowa. 

Four years have elapsed since our last dress jjarade, and it is with pleas- 
urable emotions that I again am able to congratulate you upon your soldierly 
bearing upon this occasion — not (mly this, I am proud of your achievements 
as a regiment in the dark days which " tried men's souls," proud that where 
duty called the old 12th was always ready to go, and went; that you through 
all your services conducted yourselves as true soldiers in camp, on the march 
and in the field — proud that you made your glorious record, not as those 
choosing the profession of arms as such, but as intelligent men and citizens 
stepping to the front when the question of the perpetuity of our nation arose. 
And leaving the pursuits of peace and becoming soldiers for the purpose of 
maintaining the Union of the States at the cost of business, health or life it- 
self, if need be — intending if you survived the struggle to return to the peace- 



S2 THIUD REUNION OF THE 



fill inirsuit.s of home. For more than four years you did your duty and per- 
formed deeds of darini; and valor and endured iuirdships such as pen cannot 
descril)e, nor artist paint, nor poet picture. Your record stands forth with- 
out a stain to mar its enilurin>i- grandeur and its glorious fame. Surely these 
considerations should fill me and all of us with jiridc But you have per- 
formed still greater achievemcMits. When the war was over you returned to 
your homes and as if by magic the brave sohlier of the old 12th of yesterday 
becomes the true high-minded citizen of to-day. It is your highest glory 
that not only did you do your duty during tlu' time you were soldiers of the great 
war for the unio:i, but that, when the war was over and you had resumed the 
arts and ways of peace, your record as citizens of our great nation has been 
as glorious as that you made as soldiers in the long dark days of the rebel- 
lion. You to-day are among the sovereigns of this great government of the 
people and for tlie i)eopIe, and y/ywr voices and votes have done as much in 
moulding the moral sentiment that cliaracterizes and pnmiotes our political 
future as did your deeds of valor and your endurance during the darli hours 
of war. You have assumed and occupied your several stations in life as cit- 
izens since the war. You have so acted and conducted yourselves as to stand 
honored and respected, not only as soldiers, but as men of character, respecta- 
bility and prominence, as citizens. 

It is a ph^asure to know that each and all of you are engaged in honora- 
ble pursuits, and that the record of each of you since the war, when examined 
makes as proud a showing of respectability and honor as\did the record of 
your splendid military achievements in the old 12th Iowa. 

J. H. STIBBS, Late Colonel 12th Iowa V. V. I,, 
S. R. BURCH, Adjutant. Brevet Brig. Gen'l. 

After the dismissing of the parade, it being then about 6 o'clock, the 

comrades repaired to the Turner Hall, where a most excellent banquet was 

in waiting for them, prepared by the ladies of the Woman's Relief Corps, 

No. 15, of Waterloo, and to which all did ample justice. 



Friday Evening. 

The closing exercises of the reunion took place in the evening at the 
Opera House, which was again tilled to overflowing by the citizens of Water- 
loo. Ex-Gov. Buren R. Sherman presided over the deliberations, and after a 
few complimentary remarks to the regiment proceeded with the program. 

"The Old Folks at Home," was earnestly responded to by Rev. J. O. 
Stevenson, of Waterloo, who was in Scotland when the rebellion began, and 
his description of the sympathy of the Scotch capitalists, who were for the 
south, and of the laboring people, who w^ere for the north, was extremely in- 
teresting. 

"The Army Chaplain" was responded to by the venerable Rev. Dr. C. S. 
Percival, Chaplain of the 12th N. Y. Cavalry, during the war, and he told the 
veterans more about Chaplains in half an hour than most of them realized 
throughout the whole war. 

H. C. Ilemenway, of Cedar Falls, was expected to be present to give his 
ideas on " Hard Tack," but being unavoidably absent. Major D. W. Reed was 
drafted on short notice, and he speedily showed his familiarity with the 
subject. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. T. IMFANTKY. 



m 



"The Girl I Left Behind Me," was eloquently responded toby C.W. Mul- 
Tin, of Waterloo, who clearly detailed the experience and feeliniis K)f every 
veteran present toward the only power which has ever conquered the whole 
Union army. 

Col. J. II. Stibbs then delivered his new version of "Barbara Frietchie," 
jimidst a storm of applause, and by particular request we publish it herewith .• 

BAKBARIE FRIETCHIE — NEW VERSION. 

Id was droo dar streeds of Fredericksdown. 
Der red-hot zun he was shine him down, 

Bast der zaloons all filt mit bier, 
Der rebel vellers valked on dier ear- 
All day droo Fredericksdown so fast, 
Horses, und guns, und zogers bast. 

Der rebel flag he shone him oud so bridt, 
As if, by jinks, he got some ridt. 

Vere vas der Onion flag V Der zun 
He look him down not on a von. 

Up jumped dot olt Miss Frletchie den. 
So oldt by nine score year und ten. 

She grabbed up der oldt flag der men haul down, 
Und fasen id guick by her nidtgown. 

Den she sot by der vindow ver all could see 
Dere vos non vot lofe dot flag so free. 

Purty soon come ridin' up Stonewall Jack, 
Sittin, from der mittle of his horse's back. 

Under him brow he squint him eyes ; 
Dot flag ! dot make him great surprise. 

Halt ! each veller make him sdill, 
Fire ? was echoed from hill to hill. 

Id busted der sdrings from dot nidtgown. 
But Barbarie Frletchie, she was arount. 

She grabbed der flag again so guich, 

Und oud of der vindow her arms did sdick. 

" Obuse of you would dis olt bald head. 
But leave alone dot flag!" she said. 

Zo zoon, zo quick as Jack could do. 
He holler him out mit a face zo blue : 

" Who bulls one hair out of dat bald head, 
Dies awful guick, go aheadt!" he said. 

Und all dot day, und all dot night, 
Till efery rebel vos out of site, 

Und leave behind him dot Fredericksdown, 
Dot flag he vas sthicken by dot nidtgown. 

Dame Barbarie Frietchie's vork is done. 
She don't forever got some fun. 

Bu-lly for her ! und drop a tea*- 

For dot old voman mitoud some fear. 



u 



THEftD REUNrON OF TJHBT 



Short story -telling was then indulged in by comrades and others present, 
when the exercises were drawn to a cloce and the reunion :uljoiu-aed to meet 
■it Sioux City, four years luvnoe. 

Excellent music and singing interspevsi'd The proceedings oj' the evening' 
and as the comrades di'parted for tlu'ir several liomes they were profuse in 
their praises of tlie treatment acc(H-ded them, by the citizens of \\'aterloo. 

The only regrettable circumstance coiniected with the reunion was the 
absence of Col. D. B Henderson, lion. VV I*. IIei)burn, Col. .1. J. Woods, Ma- 
jor S. I). Brodtbeck, and otlu-rs who were e.vpected to- be pres<.'at and talie 
[)art In the pnu-eedings. 

IN MEMORIAiVJ. 



Dfc:.\Tir or cou s. it. eikjinoton. 

Col. S. H. Ed'i;lnrton, of Eldora, Iowa, died at his home in Eldoni, Iowa; 
May 20, 1888. ("ol. Edgingtcm was a gallant soldier of two wars — the ^lexi- 
ciui war and the war of the Rebellion. He served in an Ohio llegiment dur- 
fng the Mexican war. Soon after tliat war he m;oved to Eldora, Iowa, where 
he resided nearly forty years. In the pioneer days of Hardin county the 
Edginuton log cabin was oae of the most hospitable homes in Iowa, and all 
the early settlers of that region remember many kindnesses extended to them 
by Colonel and Mrs. Edgington. The Edgington log ctibin was one of the 
tir.st buildings erected in Eldora, and it was occupied as a store and a resi- 
dence until the advent of saw mills and brick yards, wh?n separate buildings 
wer(» erected. Col. Edgington continued in m'^rchaudise until the war broke 
out in 18GT, when he organized Company A of the l"2th Iowa Infantry, and 
joined that regim:ent at Dubuque. Soon after the battle of Shiloh, in which 
battle he commanded the regiment after C-ol. Wcwds was wounded, he was 
promoted to Major, and some months after was promoted to Lieutenant-Col- 
onel of the regiment, which rank he held when mustered out. The greater 
part of the time since the war he had been the proprietor of the principal 
hotel at Eldora. For some months previous to his death he had been afflicted 
with some disease of the kidneys. At the reunion of the 12tli Iowa Infantry 
at Waterloo, April 5th and 6th, 1888, he was President of the Regimental As- 
sociation and was feeling quite poorly, but none anticipated that he would be 
called away in such a short time. Talking of future reunions, he said: "Com- 
rades, we will continue having our reunions every four years while we live, 
and when we die we will have unending reunions in Heaven." He was a 
sjilendid officer, a genial comrade and a steadfast friend. His death will be a 
sad loss to his numberless friends in Hardin county, to liis comrades of the 
12th Iowa Infantry, and to the state and country. 



TWEXFTH IOWA V. V. ISFAKTll^ 



The Following is the Roll of Members Present. 



Regimental and FinlU Oliieers. 

Colone]--J. H. Stibbs (Brev. Brig. Geii.) Chicago, Illinois- 
Lieut. Colonel — S. R. Edgington, Eldora, lovva. 

S. G, Knee, Colesburg, Iowa. 
Maj(»r— D. W, Reed, Waukon, Iowa. 
Adjutant— S. R. Hurcli, Olathe, Kansas. 
Asst. Surgeon — James Barr, Algona, Iowa.. 
Quartermaster — George H Morisey, Manchester, Iowa 
" H. C Morehead, Cedar Ra]iids, Iowa. 

Serg. Major — A, J. Rodgers, Wnukon, Iowa- 
Co ui pan y A. 

y. Kemp, Alden, Iowa. G. H. Cobb, Eldora, Io\\"a. 

VV. W Moore, Manchester, Iowa, R. P. Clarkson, Des Moines, It)W>u 

D. S: Martin, Iowa Falls, Iowa. Thos H. Wilson, Robertson, Iowa. 

Seth Macy, Des Moines, Iowa. S. R. Ferree, Belle Plaine, Iowa. 

R. S. Kellogg, Dows, Iowa, 

Cniupany Tt> 

Lt. John D Cole, Lansing, Iowa. R Bathen, Riceville, Iowa. 

J. H. Butts, C'herokee, " Thos Dowling. Rossville, Iowa, 

R. G. Pratt, Storm Lake, " W, P. Winters, Bancroft, 



S, C. Beck, Waverly, Iowa. 

J E. Kent, Belle Plaine, Iowa. 

P. R. Woods, Fayette, 

G. Hazlett, Allison 

A. K. Ketchum, Clarion, 

R. Z. Latimer, Fayette, " 

E A. Kelsey, Tripoli, 

W. L. Henderson, LeRoy, Minn. 

Hart Spears, West Gate, Iowa. 

S. Gilford, Douglass, " 

C. J. Martin, Horton, *' 

J. W. Bysong, West Point, Nebraska 

Company D 



Company C, 

James Stewart, West L^nion, Iowa. 

J. W. Ballinger, Lacy, " 

P R. Ketchum, Windsor, " 

F W. Moine, Strawberry Point, Iowa, 

G. H Latimer, West Gate, Iowa. 

H G, Grannis, Fla.ir Bear., Fayette, la, 

Geo. L. Dnrno, Springville, low-a. 

W. A. Kent, Dallas, Wif?consin. 

T W. King, Emrick, Nebraska, 

J, P. Strong, Schuyler, 

L. S. Hamlin, Oelwein, Iowa. 



Lyman M. Ayers, Cedar Rapids, la 

Thos. J. Lew'is, 

Edwnn A. Buttolph, " " " 

J. W. Clark, 

Thomas Barr, Shellsburg, " 

A. J Millett, Hastings, Nebraska. 

H. W. Bailey, Kirkman, Iowa. 

E. D. Steadraan, Vinton, " 

J. W. Row^an, Vinton, Tow^a. 

Company E. 

Wm. Hamilton, La Porte City, la. E. Sawyer, La Porte City, low^a 



E. B. Soper, Emmettsburg, Iowa. 
Wm. W. Whiteneck, Waterloo," 
J. N. Weaver, Sioux City, " 
J. W. Burch, Olathe, Kansas. 
Josiah Scott, Shellsburg, Iowa. 
Harman Grass, Fargo, Dakota. 
A M Blanchard, Chicago, Illinois. 
W. C. Howard, Chelsea, Iowa. 



F. \. Large, 

David Craighton, Geneva, 

C. V. Surfus, Bristow, " 

J. C. Jones, Geneva ' 

A. B. Perry, Dunkerton, ' 

C. B. Hayward, Mooreville, ' 

R L. Bird, Yuma, Colorado. 

C. R. Switzer, Lewis, Iowa. 

H. J. Harrison, Waterloo, Iowa. 



David Schrack, Oelwein, 

A W. Myers, Shell Rock, " 

J. S. Margretz, Hitesville, " 

A. J. Biller, Waterloo, 

B. E. Eberhart, Marshalltown, la. 
J. W. Shoemaker, Waterloo, " 
N. J. Shroyer, Taintor, " 

C. D. Morris, Worthing, Dakota 
M. V. Sunderlin, Janesville, Iowa. 



:?« 



THTRP KEniNiorr or rut: 



Company F. 



T. C. Nelson, llazelton, lovvii 

H. F Miifkey, Maynard, " 

il. ^I. Preston, Ft. Dodire, Iowa. 

J. F. Lee, Clay Mills, 

Abner Dunham, Manchester, Iowa. 

R. W. Tirrill, 

T. R. McKee, Dell Rapids. Dakota. 

A. J. R(K% Biirlinj>tou, Iowa. 



W. A. Nelson, llazelton, Iowa. 
.) J. Eaton, Edgewood, 
Geo. Kent, Oelwein, 
Joshua Widger, Manrhestev, Iowa. 
J. W. Gift, Peoria, Illinois. 
Hiram Kaster, Manchester, Iowa. 
Thos. McGowan, Independence, la. 
J. E. Eldredge, Walnut, Kansas. 
II. Olmstead, Independence, Iowa. 

CwiiiipaHy (i. 

It VV. Kirkland, Freeport, Iowa. J. E Simpson, Norfolk,. Nebraska- 

Warren ^^'ait, Nashua, " A. II. Groves, Decorah, Iowa, 

Van 11 Dunn, I)e Witt, Nebraska. A. S. Fuller, Lyons, Dakota. 

Company H, 

J. Shorter, Shell Rock, Iowa. J. A Light, Norfolk, Nebraska- 

J A. VanAnda, Fremont, Neb. J. B. Flenniken, Norfolk, Neb. 

Franklin M. Ilamblin, Iowa Falls, la. J. W. Ward, Burlington, Iowa. 



Joseph Frank, Lamont, Iowa 

S. M. Jackson, Lincoln, Neb. 

W. H. McCune, Ruthven, Iowa 

David Jones, Monona, 

Wm Royse, Atlantic, 

VVm. Shorter, Shell Rock, " 

M. D Nagle, Dubuque, Iowa. 
J. F. Zediker, Franklin, Neb. 
J. W. Coates, Talcott, Dakota. 
W. L. Fry, Scranton, low^a. 
J. F. Butlers, Moorville, Iowa, 
I). D. McCollum, Sibley, " 



R. W. Fishel, Greeley, 

S. B. Sloan, 

W. H. Co.x, Alta, 

J. G Currie, Butte City, Montana. 

J W. Crist, Central City^ Dakota. 

Company I. 

Geo Teskey, Elwood, Iowa 

E. B. Campbell, Armstro4ig Grove, la. 

M McDermott, Ep worth. Iowa. 

J. L. Thompson, Franklin, Neb. 

M. B. Goodnow, Ord, 



Henry Waldrofl, La Porte City, la. 
Ira D. Blanchard, Crookston, Minn 
C. E. Merriam, Hopkinton, Iowa. 
t; E. Phillips, Blair, Nebraska. 
W. R. Mathis, Omaha, 



Company K. 

P. J. Morehou.se, ilasonville, lowti, 
H. C. Merriam, Coggon, 
J. M. Beckner, Charles City, " 
Ike Mickey, Waukon, 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



Roster of Members of the 12th Iowa V. V, Infantry, so far as known, at the 
time of this Reunion. 



Field aud Stafl'. 



Colonel — Jackson J. Woods, Montana, Kansas. 

— ,]. H. Stibbs, Chicago, Illinois 
Lt. Col. — S. K. Edgington, Eldora, Iowa. 

— S. G. Knee, Colesburg, 
Major — S. D. Hrodtbeck, Los Angeles, California. 

" — E. M. Van Duzee, St. Paiil, Minn. 

" — D. W. Reed, Waukon, Iowa. 
Surgeon — C. C. Parker, Fayette, Iowa. 

" — Myron Underwood, Eldora, Iowa. 

Asst. Surg.— W. H Finley, Franklin, Nebraska. 

" — James Barr, Algona, Iowa 

Adjutant — N. E. Duncan, Dubuque, Iowa. 

" — S. R. Buroh, Olathe, Kansas. 

Quartermaster — G. H. Morisey, Manchester, Iowa. 

" — H. C Morehead, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Chaplain — Frederick Hum]>hrey, Fairmount, Minn. 
Hospital Steward — C. H. Hobbs, Peru, Nebraska. 

—J. J. Walker, De Witt, Missouri. 
Com. Sergt. — James Evans, Dubuque, Iowa. 
Sergt. Major — A. J. Rodgers, Waukon, " 
Drum Major — T. R McKee, Dell Rapids, Dakota. 
Fife Major— D. S Martin, Iowa Falls, Iowa 
" — S. M. French, Denver, Colorado. 

Company A, 



Armstrong, B A Liscomb, Iowa. 
Bird, G M Illinois. 
Brother, A Arlington, Ohio. 
Cougar, J D, Eldora Hardin Co., la. 
Cromwell, T C Oakland, Iowa. 
Cobb, G H Eldora, Iowa. 
Dobbins, Hiram JeAvell Co , Kan. 
Edgington, S R Eldora, Iowa. 
Ellsworth, D V Eldora, " 
Ferree, S R Belle Plaine, Iowa. 
Haskins, G H Marysville, Mo. 
Hunter, J R C Webster City, la. 
Iback, B F Eldora, Iowa. 
Kidwiler, M Missouri. 
Kellogg, R E Dows, Iowa. 
Macy, Seth Des Moines, Iowa. 
Moore, G W Maryville, Mo. 
Miller, Zabina 

Mitchell, G W Lawn Hill, Iowa. 
Parish, William 
Reed, G W Yarkie, Missouri. 
Rulo, G W South Bend, Indiana. 
Sprague, K S Fremont, Nebraska. 
Wilson, T PI Robertson, Iowa. 
Welsh, Nathan 
Webb, A E Eldora, Iowa. 
Zieger, N W Eldora, Iowa. 



Bowers, I H Eldora, Hardin Co., la. 
Bell, Thos. R Iowa Falls, Iowa. 
Brown, S B Jewell City, Kansas. 
Clarkson, R P Des Moines, Iowa. 
Combes, E C De walls Bluff, Ark. 
Crist, Job MarshalltoM'n, Iowa. 
Dobbins, Levi Eldora, " 

Edgington, T B Memphis, Tennessee. 
Fountain. Francis 

Glass, Carl Dayton (Mill Home) Ohio. 
Haywood, W P Lyons, Iowa. 
Hobbs, Jas. C H Peru Nebraska. 
Jackson, Samuel Oregon. 
Kemp, Sumner Alden, Iowa. 
Lefever, Simon Bolekow, Missouri. 
McPherson, W G 
Moore, W W Manchester, Iowa. 
Mann, William Steamboat Rock, la^ 
Martin, D S Iowa Falls, Iowa. 
Richards, William 
Runkle, C M Plankinton, Dakota. 
Richards, Joseph Boone, Iowa. 
Sawin, E S Union, Iowa. 
Walker, Samuel Dewitt, Missouri. 
Wickam A J Eagle City, Iowa. 
Zieger, J W Eldora, Iowa. 



88 



TirrKD REnJHIOK OF THE 



Company K. 

Captain \Villarcl C Earle . . .*. Waiikon, Iowa. 

" Watson li llanscom died — " 

1st Lieut. L H Merrill died, Montjioiuery, Ala., i\Iay 2d. 18(52. 

J 11 Bor-ier died, Salt Creek Station, Illinois. 

J P .lack.son Vllla.'-(^ Creek, Iowa. 

2d " J D Cole .Lansinu-, " 

Serfft Maj A J Hod^ers Waukoiil " 

1st Seriit Georire Il)ach Preston, Minn. 

Sergt. .1 I) Spauhling .dead. 

" Elias Hepp 

" I) Harbaugh died at Macon, Ga., Oct 15, ]8«3. 

" lh>nry Fry ^ Pennsylvania. 

" AV P Winter Bancroft, Iowa. 

" John Upstrom Worthington, Minn. 

" li B Sargent '. . . . Kansas. 

Corp'l II Goodrich 

'• M J Koe died at Macon, Ga., Sept. 29, 1882. 

" F E Hancock died at Annapolis, Md.. Oct. 27, 1802. 

" Stephen Thibeda Waukou, Iowa. 

" Robert Wampler " " 

" Aslak Larson Preston, Minn. 

" Fred Monk Eitzen, " 

" L D Bearce Castaua, Iowa. 

" ]VI Engelhorn Kansas. 

" W \i Hort Viroqua, Wis. 

Wagoner E J White died at P'rench Creek, Iowa. 

" Augustus H West, Andrews, H R West Union, Iowa. 

Adams, O F Bailey, Geo. N St. Paul, Minn. 

Bailey, W F St. Paul, Minn. Beisel, J B died Lansing, la. Feb. 25, '64 

Brock, Gustavus Bryant, J L " Macon, G., Sept. 25, '63 

Butts, J li Cherokee, Iowa. Bathen, Robert Riceville, Minn. 
Baruhart, Amos L j, died May 4, 1864 } Bort. A K Viroqua, Wisconsin 

'/ Memphis, Tenn. ) Bort. M Jas died at Lansing, Iowa. 

Burnum H Burlingarac, O D Chicago,' Illinois. 

Calico, Geo. d'd St. Louis, Jan. 7, '62. Candee, George 

Churchill, L B Ca.stellar, Frank 

Decker, Adam Lansing, Iowa. Deeny Cornelius i died Milwaukee, '64 
Dodge, Ansel II deserted 1861 ( at Soldiers' Home. 

Dowling, John French Creek, low^a. Dowling, Thomas, Rossville, Iowa. 

Edwards, Isaac Ettle, George, Waukon, Iowa. 

Erickson, E A Glenwood, Dakota. Feidt, John 

Ferguson, B Pennsylvania. Goodykooutz, D F Boone, Iowa. 

Griffin, Lawrence— deserted. Greenup, E T d'd July 18, '64, Memphis 

Hawkins, Hiram Hanson, Jens d'd Oct 5, "62, Macon, Ga. 

Hanson, O d'd Jun.30,'62, Atlanta, Ga. Hue-stis, J II Waterville, Iowa. 

Hughes, John died St Louis, Mo. Hannan, Lawrence, died July 28, 
Husted, Jacob M died July 29, 1864, Cairo, 111. 

1864, Memphis, Tenn. Isted, IBS Milwaukee, Wisconsin. 

Iverson, Knud Lansing, Iowa. Jennings, D P 

Jones, Henry Johnson, Lewis 

King Chas d'd Oct. 12, '62, Macon, Ga. Klees, Frank Rossville, Iowa. 

Kuck, Henry " 10, " " " Knudson, Hans 

Kleven, Sam"Aug24, " " " Lankins, F W died in Nebraska. 

Lene, Augu.st killed, Tupalo, Lewis Edward 

Miss., July 15, 1864. Larson, Kensil 

Larkins, Rees N Maynard, W M died Sept. 6, 1863, 
McCabe, Hugh Waukon, Iowa. Vicksburg, Miss. 

McKay, Frank McGuire, Brian, Freeport, Illinois. 

Miner, Jasper J died Dec. 24, 1861, McClintock, James Rossville, Iowa. 



"TWEL>""ni IOWA \. A'. raiTAxrR^. , SS 

St. Louis, Mo. Mann, Ansel E— dead. 

McDonald, James JSoje-s, Cli!ft-le,s H died Aug. 7^ 
JS^oyes, Alonzo 1862, .Vlacon, Ga 

Nye, G Fd'd Nov. (3, '63, Lan.sing, la. Oleson, Ole 

■Ogan, Chas C Sihley, Iowa. Oleson, John iSpring (.Trove, Minn. 

Oleson, Bariiliart Ferry, Edwin K died Nov 6, 1862, 
Peterson, Bore Annapolis, .V'd. 

Patterson, J as. W died of wounds Peck, Ira Ed'd July 16, '62, .>uicon, Ga 

July 24, '64, Mejni)hi.s, Tenn- Peck, Simon " Sept. 24. " 

Peclv, .lohu P Plank, Levi Lake De Funiak, Florida. 

Pratt, M M Spokane FaJls, n . T. Pratt, U G Storm Lake, Iowa. 

Porter, .John B .Hoe, Charles E 

Russell, Wiarles, Brooklyn, \l<x Stack, Thos. d'd Jan. 11, '62, St. Louis. 

Sohn, J no. d'd Dec, 21, '62, St. Louis. Sjodin, Peter — deivd. 

Schilt'hauer, Kich Stecker, William 

Scott, Jos d'd Oct 31, '62, St Louis Stortz, Joseph 

Stillman, John J killed Feb 13, Smith, S C North McGregor, lowa- 

'62, Fort Doxielsoa, Tenn. Sanner, Michael F Rossville, Iowa. 

Smith, Ira J Thronsen, Knud dic-^ .) une 30, 
Thayer, Jesse '62, Atlanta, Ga, 

V\ oodmansee, Isaac Kossville, la, V\ ood, Edwin W 

White, Wm. Al d'd -lune 3U, '62, Wood, Stephen 

- Macon, Ga Wilber, Robert 

Winter, Rut'us — dead. V^ inter, Francis A killed July 14, 
Walcott, Daniel H died Nov. 23, '64, Tujielo, Miss, 

'6.'), Talladega, Ala. Warberg, Ole B Spring Grove, Minn, 

Note. — Total number of Company, 132; of whom reported dead, 42; 
disability during service, 30- from wounds, 4; w^ounded in action, 35^ taken 
prisoners April" 6, 1862, at Shiloh, Tenn , 56; killed in action, 3. 

Company C. 

Capt, Wm. W Warner died at Memphis, Tenn., Dec. 12, 1863 , 

" Geo. W. Cook Medicine Lodge, Kansas, 

David W Reed, (Major 12th Iowa) Waukon, Iowa. 

" Wm L Henderson Leroy, Minn. 

1st Lt. David B. Henderson, (Col. 46th Iowa) Dubuque, Iowa. 

Henry J Grannis Fayette, " 

2d Lt. Aaron M Smith died at South Bend, Ind , Jan. 1, 1883. 

1st Sergt. Jer. F Hutchins, (Capt. Co. E, 12th la.) Minneapolis, Minn. 

Sergt. Gilbert Hazlett Allison, Iowa. 

" Emery Clark. ... Estaline, Dakota. 

James Stewart West Union, Iowa. 

" Phineas R Ketchum Windsor, " 

Philo R Woods Fayette, " 

Frank W Moine Strawberry Point, " 

Corp. David Connor died of wounds, Nashville, Jan. 5, 1865. 

" Thomas Henderson killed at Shiloh, April 6, 1862. 

" Samuel F Brush died at Macon, Ga., Oct. 31, 1862. 

" Geo. L Durno Springville, Iowa. 

James Barr, (Asst. Surg, 12th Iowa) Algona, " 

" Daniel D Warner died at Macon, Ga., Sept. 10, 1862. 

" John W Bysong West Point, Neb. 

" Jo.seph D Baker Monti video, Minn. 

" George E Comstock Manchester, Iowa. 

Henry C Curtis Lemars, Iowa. 

" John A Delezene Rock Rapids, Minn. 

William H Jordan Cheney, Washington Territory. 

" Amos K Ketchum Clarion, Iowa. 

John E Kent Belle Plaine, " 

" I W King Emerick, Neb, 

Musician Sumner Harfshorn died in Michigan. 



i(f 



TTrrpfD KECXrON' ok TITE' 



Abbott, Edward J (rover, no per- 
manent residence- 
Beck, Sam'l C Waverly, Iowa. 
Ballinger, .John W Lud'y, - 
Brown, John T 

Brown, Geori^e VV(KKLst(Kk. III. 
Burronghs, CJco A i)ongla.ss, Iowa- 
Barton, Alvah 11 
Bushnell, A,bn< r L' d'd at Pueblo,. 

Col., J an. 1«S2 
Barr, Henry T;inia t-fKuity, Iowa. 
Barnes, ,las. (tran-slVr lioni 27.) 
Benjamin, iSatlian (dralted) 
Bennelield, \\ m. (.substitute) 
Chase, 'I'hof.i. 11 d'd 8t. Lotus, Mar. 28,'G2 
Connor, Fell. \ d"d •' ' J;ui. 14, 'G2 

" ' Daniel 

Crossimui, Silas" Elgin, la Apr 14, 'SI. 

Carmichael. -las. II lllyria, Iowa. 

(^'omstock, Krank St. Louis, Mo. 

Davis, Jay C Wisconsin, 

Davis, Andrew J Berrian Spring, Mich. 

Dawson, John (27th lowai 

Forbes, VVm. d'd St Louis, Jan. 2, '02, 

George. Henr}^ died of wounds 

M'd City, May 2, '62. 
(xillam, Ezekiel D (27th Iowa) 
Ha/.lett, John B Howard, Dakota. 
House, Xathan died at Savan- 
nah, Tenn., April, 1862. 
Hendershot, Thos. Plainview, Neb 
Henselbecker, Henry (drafted) 

Bluff ton, Iowa. 
Hinkel. Edward C (drafted) VV iu- 

tield, Iowa, 
■lordau, Isadore L Bull City Kan 
Jaques, Luther Fairbanks, Iowa 
Jones, Geo. M (drafted) 
Jewell, lames E (27th Iowa ) 
Jackuay, G H (27th Lu) Lamont, la. 
Kent, AVilliam A Dallas, Wis. 
Lewis, Leroy d'd St. Louis, Jan. 3,63. 
Lattimer, George H West Gate, la. 
Lyons, William A West Union, " 
Lott, Lawrence Kampeska, Dak. 
.Mattocks, Jason L Minneapolis, Minn. 
McCall, John W Brownville, Neb. 
^lattocks, Ross Wadena, Iowa. 
McElvain, John d'd McLeansboro, 111. 
Martin, Chas. I (27th) Horton, la. 
Patterson, Samuel W (27th.) 
Proctor, Geo W (27th) Lawrens, la. 
Prichet, John L (drafted.) 
Quivey, Jno d'd Oct. 4, '62, M aeon, Ga. 
Rodgers, Reuben F Waucoma, la, 
Rodolph, John J 

Spears, Niles H West Gate, Iowa. 
Smith, Jacob R 
Smith, Henry C died May 3, '63, 

Milliken's Bd. La 



Ayers,Jas L d'd Macon, Ga., Oct 3, '62. 
Adams, Ed d'd Fayette, la., Dec 20, '71. 
Blauchai'd, S S died at Po.stville, Iowa.. 
Brosvii, AU)ert re-enli.sted iji SJth iowa. 
Cav., killed by accident at Hickory 
Plain, Ark., Dec. 24, 18 4 
Bowers, W in H Limest(Mieville, Pa 
Baker, Miles d'd Nov. U», '67, Eden, la. 
Beadle, Henry d'd Maeon, Ga. Aug. !»,'62 
Brown, Addhson L tk^serted, Selnia, Ala 
Becktell, David T Volga City, Iowa 
Brant, Allen (transfer from 27) 

Fairbanks, Iowa. 
Browsley, Wm (drafted) 
CliU'k, henry Melbourne. Iowa. 
Connor, Sam'l .Ma.xwell 
Ciu-d, Sihis B 

Clawson, Elijah d'd St LouLs, Jan.10,'62 
Carrington, Cluus. Mitchell county. 
Cantield, Therou P (27th la.; Buf- 

f;do Grove, lowa. 
Delezene, Benj Republic City, Neb. 
Forbes, David 
Grajinis, Geo. W mis.sing at Shiloh, 

never hetu-d from. 
Gifford, Simeon Douglass, Iowa. 
Hood, Alonzo F d'd St. Louis, J an.31,'62 
Hamlin, \Vni A Plymonth, Iowa. 
Hill, John W 
Hill, Benj J (drafted) 
Heukee, Martin (drafted) died at 

Memphis, April 17, 1864. 
Hamlin, Lyuuvn S Oelwein, low^a. 
Husted, Jacob M 
Henderson, James A (27th Iowa) 

Cherokee, Iowa. 
Jones, Henry d'd St. Louis, J;m. 17, 62. 
Jordan, Daniel .VI killed at Rock- 
dale, Texas, Nov. 10, 1881. 
Ivelley, Artemus. 
Kelsey, E A Tripoli, Iowa. 
Lattimer, Robert Z Fayette, Iowa. 
Larson, Chas. killed Shiloh .\pril 6, '62. 
Little, James 

Munger, Albert P Cowlitz, W.T. 
McCall, Daniel E Culver, Kansas. 
Mclntyre, Thos. J died at Vicks- 

burg, Feb 26, '65. 
Muchmore, Stephen D (27th.) 
Pendleton, Chas. E killed Shiloh, 

April 6, 1862. 
Pitts, Jas. (drafted) London, Kansas. 
Quivey, Wm W Huml>oldt, Iowa 
Russell, Granville died Feb. 17, '62, 

St. Louis, Mo. 
Rockwell, Wm. R (drafted.) 
Simar, Willard E d'd M aeon. Oct. 10, '62 
Smith, Norton T kilbxl at Vicks- 

burg, May 22, '62. 
Siegman, Chas d'd Annapolis, Oct. 27," 



TWT;LPTH IOWA V. V. INFANTR'^, 



41 



ytone, Sarn'l d'd Annapolis, Oct. 3/G2. Stoue, Dan'l U aiiooma, Iowa. 
.Sykes, Orvis Freeport, llliuois, hpears, Dan'l H d'd Sedalia, :N<)v. 12,'«4 

*Slierbone, Daniel btroiig, John P bchuyler, iNcb. 

Sprowls, .lohn fcjaulsburj, -lohn 

'1 atro, Aui^u^t Clermont, lowti. L'ttor, AU)ert Hycamore, 111, 

Verdin, Isaiah Williams, Kudolphus, West Union, Iti 

Wallace, Chaj^i.d'd July 9, '68, Hos- V^ arner, \\ alter li. Clermont, Iowa. 

nitiU Boat, W ait, Van Buren de.serted St. Louis, 

April, 186:5. 

Coni|iauy D, 

A^tibb.s, John H Koon^ 88, P. O. Buildinj;-, Chicago, 111. 

^oper, E B Emmet.sburg, Iowa. 

Prescott, T L 1123 Lexington Ave., cor. S. W. Ave., ChicaiiO, 111. 

Ayers, layman M Cedar Rapids, la. lUittolph, Edwin A Cedar Kapids, la. 

baumgardner, Wm Eldora, Iowa, Burcli, Syh ester K Olathe, Kansa.s. 

Bailey, Edwin H Fredonia, Kan. Bailey, Henry W Kirkman, Iowa. 

Blanchard, Allen M Chicago, 111. Barr, Thomas ShelLsburg, 

Burch, John W OlatJie Kansas. Blood, Alvarro C 

Brown, Angus M ^Sion.x City, Iowa. Clark, John M Cedar Kapids, Iowa, 

Conley, Dennis Davenport," " Cowell, James L Marengo, W. T. 

ClarK, Cnas W Cedar Rapids, " Curren, FrancisMarion, Iowa. 

Clark, Isaac Ci Omaha, Keh. Cowell, Robert C Guthrie Center, la. 

Clemans, Nick alias Cha-s. Ran- Dailey, James C Cherokee, Iowa 

som, ymith Center, Kan. DuBois, Ferdinand, DenLson, Iowa. 

Ellgen, Harmon Craiton, Iowa. Ferner. James I) Nevada, 

Flint, iSamuel H Leavenwoi-th, Kan. Gephart, Perrj' Lake Forest. 111. 

Grass, Harmon Fargo, Dakota. Howard, William C ( helsea Iowa, 

Hale, Neil Tucson, Arizona. Holler, Irdill W 

Johnson, Robinson L Saut'ord, Neb. King, Eli Washington, Kansas. 

Lanagan, James Odel, Nebraska. Luther, John Norton, Kansas. 

Lewis, Thos J Cedar Rapids, Iowa. Lee, William \j Helena, ^Montana 

Lambert, John B Little, James H 

jVlartm, Richard S Mclntyre, Alpheus 

Moorehead, Chas L Cedar Rapids, la Millett, Allen J H*astings, Neb 

Morrow, B Frank Almena, Kansas. Maryatt, O H Red Cloud, Neb. 

Minor, David W Areata, Cal. Moorehead, Homer C Cedar Rajiids la 

Price, Nathan G Jewell City, Kan. Price, .' V Geo Mountain Grove, Mo. 

Paugboru, Howard Palouse, W. T. Rowan, John W Vinton Iowa. 

Ross, Henry W Red Cloud, Neb. Renchin, Frank Bloomingt'n Pra., Min. 

Ross, J esse H Red Cloud, iSTeb. Steadman, Dudley E Vinton, Iowa. 

iScott, Josiah ShelLsburg, Iowa. Soper, Roswell K Estherville, " 

iStartwell, .Joseph O Marion, Iowa. Steward, Aaron A Cai'thage, Mo. 

Sivets, Daniel Sublett, Mo. , Tarpenning, 'as vi Northville, Tenn. 

Thompson, Frank D Nevada, Iowa, Trowbridge, Wm H Des Moines, la. 

V^auEmman, W^m M Grand View% Dak. W^hittam, John .) Cedar Rapids, la, 

Wagner, Jasper Center Point, Iowa. Whiteneck, W W Waterloo, low^a. 

Weaver, .lohu N Siou.x City, " Zuyer, B P Adams, Nebraska 

Stibbs, Joseph — died .July 16, 1866, at Wooster, Ohio, of abscess of back, con- 
tracted in rebel i)risons. 

Blackburn, .Joseph ..—died April 20, 1862, near Shellsburg, Iowa, of disease 
on account of which discharged. 

Breman, Patrick — died Sept. 17, 1873, at Hot Springs, Arkansas, of disease of 
lungs and liver. 

Craft, James — died July 3, 1863, of disease on account of which discharged. 

Baumgardner, Samuel — died .1 une, 1877, at Vinton, Iowa, of consumption. 

Doolittle, Washington A — died July 21, 1880, at Watkius, Benton Co., Iowa, 
of Bright's disease, resulting from chronic diarrhoea and lung difficulty. 

Doleshall, Wencil— died August 31, 1873, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Frees, James P — died April 5, 18()2, at Cedar Rapids, Iowa, of pneumonia. 

Frees, Andrew .1— killed June 30, '73, at Cedar Rapids, by B C R & N R'y cars. 



42 



TFirUU UECNfON OK TirF; 



(iilchrist, Wm B — died at Shellsburg, Iowa, of disease on account of which 

ho wiis discharged. 
Lutz., William U— (iitnl Oc-t. ;?1, IS77, at (V'dar Kapids, Iowa, of old age and 

general ilebiiity. 
^'artin, Khene/.er li— died Dec. 28, "(iS, at C'ed;u- liapids, la., of consumption. 
Claliiiglier, lames — (iied am. ^1, 18«U, at Crete, Neb, of Briglit's disease. 

NoTii.— Any one knowing the addresst^s of tliose not given, or of tlieir 
death, will confer a favor on C"o. I), l)y addressing E. B. Sopor, Emmots- 
hurg, Iowa 

<'<»inpany K. 



Uooue, K (t S<-(>tt, Iowa. • 

Heckwitli, VV II l»arlversl)urg, la 
Kird, K \Vinter.-;et, Iowa. 
Belton, .lames Edgewood, Iowa. 
("ook, Charles Lester, 
Crowhurst, Seth .1 Salem, Dakota. 
Cook, I oho I Brooklyn, New York. 
Coon, 11 F d'd Oct. \S4, Waterloo, la. 
Denvoss, Thomas Bristow, Iowa. 
Kllwell, .luhn Chicago, Illinois. 
Early, T M Bristow, Iowa, 
llaiuiltoii, Wni La I'orte City, la. 
Harrison, II .1 \Vati'rl(K), Iowa. 
Large, F A l>a. Porte ( ity, Iowa 
Margret/,, J S llittsville ,'lowa. 
Miniiwu, D.ivid Big Clrove, Iowa. 
IVrry, A B Duukertou, Iowa. 
Rich', .) W Vinton, 
Stewart, .Icwl A Oregon City, Ore. 
Seeher, (t L Sabula, Iowa. 
Switzer, I' 11 Lewis, " 
Smith, Harvey Waterloo, Iowa. 
Shumaker, -lohn \\ Waterloo, la. 
Strong Ezra Si(mx City, Iowa 
Williams, (> apt.) liolit Vancou- 

vre, W T 



liiller, Anthony . I Waterloo, Iowa, 
lioylan, Thomas, St(H-kton, Kan. 
Bird, 11 L Yuma, Col. 
Collins, Chas V Charles ( ity, Iowa. 
Creighton, David tJeneva, 
Cook, .loseph New Castle, Neb. 
Cook, Adolph ^ 

Church, Nathan, Webster City or 

Eiigle Grove, Iowa. 
Eberhart, Ben Mivrshalltown, 
(iraham, Jacob Davenport, " 

llayward, C B JMooreville, " 

,l(vnes, .lohn C Geneva, 
Myers, A W Shell Rock, " 

Morris, i.; I) Worthing, Dakota." 
Ochs, Charles Ackley, Iowa. 
Heed, Zeil Fredonia, Iowa. 
Surfus, i; V Bristow, 
Sunderlin, M V B Janesville, Iowa. 
Schrack, David Oelwein, 
Shari>, Oliver Finchford, " 

Sawyer, E La Porte i ity, " 

Shro'yer, Nathaniel Taintor, 
Talbot, Allen E Oi-leaus, Indiana. 
V\ atkins, Isaac Crawfordsville, Ind. 
West, D F Theon, W 'i\ 



Coii»pan.v F. 



Ainsw'orth, J E Mo. Valley June. la. 
Bremner, .lohn Yankton, Dak. 
Brown, Eugene Brush Creek, la. 
Coolidge, F VV Hawlins, Wyom'g T. 
Dunham, Abner Manchester, la. 
Eldridgo, .1 E Walnut, Kansas 
Eaton, John .1 Edgewood, Iowa, 
(^irton, .losejili S Hazelton, " 
tiift, .1 W Peoria, Illinois. 
Hall'hill, Jirsiah Wood Center, la. 
Ivaltenl)ach, Sam'l Manchester, " 
Kent, (ieorge Oelwein, 
Kirchner, Mike 

Lee, John F Council Grove, Kan. 
Mackev, II F Mavnard, Ii>wa. 
McKee, T U Dell" Kapids, Dak. 
Maun, Wm AV Hanelsburg, Neb. 
Nel.son, T C Mazeltou, Iowa, 
Preston, II M Ft Dodge, Iowa. 
Peasley, H II Kansas. 
Roe, A J Burlinirton, Iowa. 



Annis, (Jec; W Lanark, Illinois. 
Buckman, Wm II Dyersville, Iowa. 
Corndl, Ed Greeley, 
Coolidge, O E Central City, Neb. 
Dahl, .iohn A Silver Creek, Iowa. 
Eldridge. K C Niagara Falls, N Y. 
French, S JM Denver, Colorado. 
Goodell, AVm H Manchester, Iowa. 
Grice, A J Doniphon, Nebraska. 
Ilasbrouck, Dan'l 11 Prairie Creek, On*. 
Kaltenl)uch, L P San Bernardino, Cal. 
K aster, Hiram, Manchester, Iowa. 
Ia'c, James F Clay Mills, Iowa. 
McGowau, Thos. Independence, la. 
Mat\ning, A L Duulap, Iowa. 
Mauley, K L 

Nelson, W A Hazelton, Iowa. 
Olm.stead, II Independence, Iowa. 
Potter, Jas. W Fayette, Iowa. 
Ral.ston, Nelson Lemars, " 
Small, H J F Chicago, Illinois. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



43 



Stci'ii, V V Miiincjipolis, Kansas. Sclmoidcr, Justus lloscwoll, Dak. 

St^^)liIlL,^ V V Clit'toii, Tcim. Tirrill, H W Mauclicstcr, Iowa. 

'J'lioni, ('liris. Wavcrly, Iowa. ''i'ibbctts, W K Cliciicy, Kansas. 

Wccdcii, U li Nuncut's (irovf, la. VVkI^mt, Josliua Maiulicstcr, Iowa. 

\Vi)ol(lri(l,i;(', Oco'W Elki)()rt, " Wandall, A Volga City, 

(-oiiipany (i. 

(' C Tuppcr, d'd Ucntou Bar. ,Ian.'()2. (i () Hanson, died at Dccorali. 

L DTownslcy, Mapiina Durann'O, Mc.\. AV L VVinsor, Clinton, Mo. 

.1 F Nickcrsi)n, il'd in rebel prison. T St(*en, died at Omalia. 

.1 E Stinipson, Norfolk, Neb A VV Erit, died in servico. 

A A liurilick, killed at 'i'upelo. J O .Johnson, Mabel, Minn. 

A K Anderson, (Jalinar, Iowa. N H Bnrdick, died at Decorah. 

() (' 'Phorson, (I'd at Eldorado, la. It Hard. 

U A ()il)son, iUcd V S service G W Sliarj), Farjj;o, Dakota. 

.1 1! Wonieldorf, Neleinb, Neb. Andrus, K V Dt^eorah, Iowa. 

Anderson, A Alb(>rt l.ca, Minn. Aker, I) () Hidf2;eway, " 

Anderson, (» Uotlisay, " Anderson, I'eter 

" A M d'd wounds rec'd Corinth. Anderson, E 

lirown, .) H di<'d at Decorah. Ballard, Stravvder 

Bowers, A died in Ohio. (!rane, .lohn 

Clark, J M Crowell, ,1 M 

Cutlii), .J Connolly, (" d'd at Sonverville, Mass. 

Coon, C A Sabinal, Texas. Chri.sto|)her.s()n, C llartland, Minn. 

Carey, A A died at (^astalia, Iowa. Dunn, Van K Dewitt, Nebraska. 

Davis, N .) Berrian Sprinus, Mich. Ennbertson, E 

Ellsworth, W I) d'd Benton Barracks. Eastonson, <} d'd at Mound City, la. 

Fuller, A S Eyons, Dakota.. Fladniark, S M M 

Fuller, A " " (Jreen, L I) 

(jorhainer, O II d'd St. Louis, 'OJJ. Gilbertson, O Benton, Minn. 

Gilbert, L died at Keokuk. Gulbranson, A Kothsay, " 

Ilonson, Klaus 

Groves, A II D(H()rah, Iowa. Hanson, Ole 

Ilulverson, A " " Hall, Austin, d'd at St. Louis, '63. 

Hall, (Jiles Helg-erson, (} died at Nashville, '04. 

IIoun«', G A Albert Lea, Minn. Harris, F W 

Hanson, Hans. Lake Park, " Hand, Andrew .1 

Hanson, Ilalver Slieldon, Dak. Johnson, II F Alexandre, Minn. 

•leusoii, A (I'd Sept '(!;{, in Miss. Johnson, Henry 1st d'd Iluntsville, 'O'i. 
Johnson, A d'd (ireensville. La., '05. " " 2d 

Johnson, N O Kittle.son, (^ B died in Minnesota. 

Kii'kland, (} W Freei)ort, Iowa. Kittleson, G 

Larson, Hover d'd Sav.uniah, Tenn. Larson, Peter 

Larson, John Low, L(^wis L 

Manson, ,1 McCalley, P died at Ilesper. 

Montn'onun-y, Wni V McLoud, S 

Madiini, D L Miller, () D Stuart, Neb. 

Maloney, J died in Held. Meyer, C 

Miller, S lives in Calirornia. Meader, M E Hesper, Iowa. 

McCJabe, C Sherburne, Minn. Moe, Peter ' 

Nass, G H Woodside, Iowa. Nelson, Sw(^n 

Oleson, O Oleson, E 

() G killed at Shiloh. " Amnion died at Memphis. 

J died at Thototi, Iowa. " AH 

Pollock, Jos niust'd out at Selma, '05. Palmer, H lives in Nebraska. 

Pierce, Fletcher Peterson, N d'd at Camp Woods, '(!;i 

R()mber^^ L O d'd at Chewalla, '04. Kaucha, Ed. 

Ricker, J died at Savannah, '(i2. Kocksvold, O P Thoton, Iowa. 

Kaucha, Fred Skidmore, Mo. Ryerson, F 

Smith, I K Baraboo, Wis. Skinner, C d'd '63, steamer Crescent. 
Simmons, R Lake Park, Minn. " F Forest City. 



u 



rUXKD KEUKIOK OF THE 



Staples, C J d'd Jit Fraiikville, lu. 
Steen, John Wiihoo, N't-b. 
Sti'i-i), llt'iuy Oakland, Neb. 
Smith, (4 M died at Dccorali, la. 
Serusoii, S A killed at Tupelo, "04. 
Tinke, J 
Thompson. A K 
'laylor, v\ H JI 

Thompson. .1 B Speilville, Iowa. 
Wright. (J F 
Wheeler, Horace 
Wait, VV Nashua, Iowa. 



Simmisou, Nels. 

Scverson, Nels. 

JSlaiim, i>ars L 

Simmons, John 

Slattery, iMiom:>.s 

'I'iiompson, T JJncoln Center, Kan. 

Torgenston, .M d'd '0.). at ontgouiery- 

Tobia.son, Andrew 

Tliorj'.son, Andrew 

Wold. L T d'd at Vacksburg. '(i;}. 

West, S Red Cloud, JS'eb 

Wiley, W'm. died at St. Louis, '63. 



Coinpaiiy H. 



Atkinson, \V L C Omaha, Neb. 
Brown, Tom Jewell City, Kan. 
i^ecket, Ed Dubuciue, Iowa. 
Currie, John G liutte CJity, .Vlon. 
Clark, B A Colesburg, Iowa. 
Co.\, VV II Alta, 
Evans, James Dubueiue, " 
Fishel, S K Ft 3Ie(;innis, Mon. 
Franks, Jo.seph Lamont, Iowa. 
Grimes, li M Kearney, Neb. 
Gostinir, Alfred G Strawberry Pt., la. 
llamblin, li E Arcadia, Ohio, 
ilandin, F M Iowa Falls, Iowa. 
Jones, David, Monona, 
Kuhnes, J C Manning, 
Light, Robt Bernett, Nebraska. 
Langslou, Aaron I transferred from 

Co. D, 27th la. to Co. D, 12th la. 
Mel onnell, Ale.x. S Ilojikinton, la. 
Newman, Geo. North Piatt, Neb. 
Royse, Wm. Atlantic, Iowa 
Shorter, James Shell Rock, Iowa. 
Sloan, S B Greeley, " 

Winch, Edward Arena, v\ is. 
Ward, John VV Burlington, Iowa. 



Briggs, U I -Marcus, Iowa. 
Benedict, R W Jesup, Iowa. 
Benedict, John \V Plum Creek, Neb. 
Crist, John ^\ Ci'ntral City, Dak. 
Crosby, J M Pukwana, " 

Duncan, N E Kan.sas City, Mo. 
Fishel, S C Iowa Falls, Iowa. 

" Robert W Greeley, Iowa. 
Flenniken, J B North Fork, Neb. 
Gilmore, A C Indianapolis, Ind. 
Horner, Geo. Dubueiue, Iowa. 
Heiu-y, Philip Greeley, 
Jackson, S M Lincoln, Neb. 
King, V\ ilson, Emerick, " 
Knee, Samuel G Cole.sburg, Iowa. 
Light, Joseph A North Fork, Neb. 
Mason, .John S Worthington, Iowa. 
.Vloreland, V D W Earlville, Iowa. 
VI c> une, VV H Rutliven, 
Playter, H J Washington, D C 
Smith, Tiiomas Turkey River. la. 
Shorter, Wm. Shell Rock, Iowa 
Trumble, James Manchester, la. 
Wisegarber, V\ m O'Neil City, Neb. 
VanAnda, John N Fremont, " 



Company I. 



Austin, N E Andrew, Iowa. 
Butters, John F Mooreville, Iowa. 
Brown, J 

Buchanan, James Tama, Iowa. 
Coates, J W 'I'alcott, Dakota. 
Campbell, E B Armstrong Grove, la. 
Cobb, Edgar C Keokuk, Iowa. 
Davenport, A G Superior, Neb. 
Eddie, Thos. C Salina, Kansas. 
F'ry, Wm. L Scranton, Iowa. 
Hatfield, Augu.stus Jersey City, N J. 
Hendricks, VVm. Winterset, Iowa. 
Kennedy, Sam'l L Cedar Rapids, la. 
^larkha'm, W H Hawkeye, Kansas. 
McCollum, D D Sibley, "lowa 
McDermott, Michael, Epworth, la. 
Nims, Weed Vlaquoketa, Iowa. 
Palmer, A L Seattle, W T. 
Ray, .lohn S Naponee, Neb. 
Sumbardo, C L (Capt.) Ramsey, Minn. 



Austin, Marion, Staplehurst, Neb. 
Belknap, Albert Scribner, 
Bintner, Wm Brayton, Iowa. 
Crane, I K Vlaciuoketa 
Campbell, Thos. Humboldt, Iowa. 
Cobb, Wm A Wallix v\ alia, W T. 
Devine, John Dubuque, Iowa 
Dujiray, Wm II Storm Lake, la. 
P^ddie, Alexander Greshumptom, Kan. 
Goodenow, 31 B Ord, Nebraska. 
Harding, James Baldwin, Iowa. 
Kohler, S\ m. Dubuque, 
Kerns, Peter Reubens, Kansas. 
McKinley, James Maquoketa, Iowa. 
McCarroii, VV F Athens, Teun 
Nagle, VI D Dubuque, Iowa. 
Perkins, ,F H Seattle, W T. 
Paup, David A Sac City, Iowa. 
Rolf, Marion Maquoketa, Iowa 
Starbuck, V\ m. llutfman, Dakota. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V." INFANTRY. 



45 



Smith, Henry Maquoketa, Iowa. 
Thompson, J as. L Franklin, Neb. 
V'auhook, Sam'l Maquoketa., Iowa 
Wilson, T Maquoketa, Iowa- 
Wilson, John F Fulton, " 
Yeley, George Clinton, " 



Brooks, .John 

Brown, J J Bloomington, Neb. 
iiillings, Abrani Luzern, N Y 
Harden, Henry A 
]}eokner. J M Charles City, Iowa. 
Church, P Arborville, Nebraska. 
Deutsher, Albert Nat. Home, Ohio. 
Freeman, Richard Spencer, " 
Keith, VV B Precept, Nebraska. 
Merriam, H C Nugent, Iowa. 
Mathis, W R Omaha, Nebraska. 
Morgan, J B Davenport, Iowa. 
Mosher, Alvin 

McConnell, Ale.K S Hopkinton, la. 
Myers, Joseph A— dead 
Robinson, Alonzo Albion, Neb. 
^nilard. Porter H Hopkinton. la. 



Teskey, George Elwood, Iowa. 
Van Du7.ee, E VI (Vlaj.)St. Paul, Minn. 
Wiutersteen, Henry vlonmouth. 111. 
Wood, Joel Maquoketa, Iowa. 
Wells, Charles A Sabula, " 
Zediker, Jas. F (Capt.) Fraaklia, Neb. 

Ooiupauy K. 

Blood, George W 

Billings, Chas. D Bloomington', Neb. 
Blauchard, Thos. LeVlar, Kansas. 
Baldwin, Newton Ada, Kansas 
Blauchard, Ira D Crookston, Minn. 
DoUey, Godfrey Hopkinton, Iowa. 
Ellison, H Neoma, Nebraska. 
Horn, Samuel Colesburg, Iowa. 
Kemp, Wm. Kirwin, Kansas. 
Merriam, C E Hopkinton, Iowa. 
Mathis, E R Omahii, Nebraska 
Morehouse, P J Masouville, Iowa. 
Morgan, Wm B Bloomington, Neb. 
Mickey, Isaac Waukon, Iowa. 
Phillips, C E Blair, Nebraska. 
Webb, Laurence Cedar Rapids, la. 
WaldrofE, Henrj La Porte City, Ix 




46 



THIKD :|IET]KI0JI OF THE 



The following is a list of the Members who paid their Dues at Waterloo, la. 



Jamc'K Barr, 

A J KogtTH, 

G cor'Ti' II Cobb, 

John 1) tole, 

1' K Wood, 

John .M t lark, 

lloiiuT C Mortbend, 

Edwin A lUiitolpli, 

E 1) IStcadiiiJiii, 

Charli's K SurluK, 

H J Hausou, 

>I V iSuiulerliii, 

E P Sawyer, 

H Kabter, 

Joe Franks, 

J \V Crii^t, 

James S IbciupKon, 

W K Mhthif, 

S I< Burih, 

J W (iift, 

C E Merriam, 

A B Perry, 

Hart .Spear, 

Robert Baihcu, 

F >I Hamlin, 

Gilbert Hazlett, 

Jot'h Widger, 

J C Joneif, 

J Sborter, 

Jerry Margretz, 

Thomas J Lewis, 

Mr. and JUrs. K P Clarkgon, 

S G Kuee, 



W H McKiihiu-, 
John A VhuAdcIb, 
K E Kellogg, 
(.' J Martin, 
J B Kiaiinigan, 
1 \V King, 
Waj. Bow an, 
k A Kelcey, 
W A Kent, 
J A Light, 
A S Fuller, 
Hannan Grains, 
'J homah tttTT, 
Boben Z Latimorc, 
H W Baik V, 
B E Eberhait, 
J K W caver, 
IS \S' Jaekson, 
A J B oe, 
S Bart tsloan, 
iA B Gi)( dnow, 
Col. EdgiugtoD, 
F B Sopcr, 
Gtoige 1 eskey, 
t upiiini biniptor, 
George H >Joii^ey, 
A Dunham, 
T> D McCalhim, 
R W Ferree, 
Robert W li(?hel, 
Keth Maey, 
Col. Stibbg, 



George D Dnrno', 
A U Grovet*, 
(ieorge W Kirkland, 
P"K Ketehiim, 
^' D Riorris, 
S Kemp, 
J \V Coatf, 
Jamef F Lee, 
John F Lee, 
F VV iloiue, 
Miehael McDermott. 
J \V Ward, 
J F Campbell, 
Thomas MeGowan,. 
J amen F Zediker, 
A J Biller, 
U J Granniti, 
E B Campbell, 
James SJlcwart, 
L My ere, 
Josiah Scott, 
A K Ketchnm, 
W H Cox. 
1 homas Bowling, 
Thomas C Nelson, 
John Ballanger, 
A W Blanchard, 
John Kent, 
D W Reed, 
Charles R Switzer, 
S D Brodtbeck, 
Daniel Sivets- 



Names of Wives and Children Present. 



Mrs. S E Edgingtou, Eldora, Iowa. 
Master Bertram Barr, Algona, Iowa. 
Mrs. R P Clarkson, Des Moines, Iowa. 

" A J Rogers, Waukon, Iowa. 
Miss Minnie A Reed, Waukon, Iowa. 
Mrs. J Henderson, LeRoy, Minn. 

" E J Lewis, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

" E B Sopcr, Emnietsburg, Iowa. 
Master E B 8oper, jr., Emmetsbnrg, la. 
Mrs. L M Ayers, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

" Alex Myers, Shell Rock. Iowa. 
Master Ralph A Dunham, Manchester, la. 
Mrs. R W Tirrill, Manchester, Iowa. 
Master E W Ktiee, Colesburg, Iowa. 
Mrs. C E Merriam, Hopkintoo, Iowa. 



Mrs. Jamee Bair, Algona, Iowa. 

" C; H Morifcey, Manchester, Iowa. 

" S Kemp, Alden, Iowa. 

" D W Reed, Waukon, Iowa. 
Master Herbert Strong, Schnyler, Nebraska- 
Miss Gnssie Henderson,- LeRoy, Minn. 
Master Mac Lewis, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 
Miss Ruble Soper, Emmetsbnrg, Iowa. 
Master E H Sopcr, " " 

>3rs. B £ Eberhait, Marshalltown, Iowa. 

" Abner Dunham, Manchester, Iowa. 

" George Kent Oelwein, Iowa. 

" J J Eaton, Edgewood, Iowa. 

" R W Fishel, Greeley, Iowa. 



The following sui vi\ing membeis of the original band of the regiment were present at 
this reumon : 

D. S. Martin— Fife Major. Truman McKee— Drum Major. 

Sewell Jackson— Fifer. W. H. McCnne— Bass Drummer. 



FOURTH REUNION 



OF THE 



TWELFTH IOWA 



Veteran Volanteer Infantry, 



HEIiD AT 



lOOX GI¥Y, IOW;q. 




Attention Comt^adesI 



It has been determined that we will send a copy of the proceedings 
of our last reunion to each surviving comrade whose address we have. 
And we hope that those who have not already paid membership fees or 
du. s, will remit said dues of one dollar, or send twenty-five cents, the 
cost of said pamphlet, to the undersigned treasurer of the association 
at Algona, Iowa. All who signed our by-laws and became members of 
our association, whose names appear on page — of this book, are enti- 
tled to a copy free of charge. 

We are anxious that all who can will become members of our soci- 
ety, and if you will send one dollar to the treasurer and direct him to 
do so, he will inscribe your name on the roll making you a member, 
and you will be entitled to this book without additional cost. Unless 
this is done we hope you will send the 25 cents. 

Comrades let us not forget each other. Help a little in the good 
work. If you know of any comrades who served in our regiment whose 
name does not appear on our book, or whose address is changed, be 
kind enough to send his name and address to J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, 
Nebraska. 

By order of Executive Committee. 

James Bark, Treasurer, 

Algona, Kossuth Co., Iowa. 



FOURTH REUNION 



OP THH 



TWELFTH lOVVA 



Veteran Volunteer Infantry, 



HEur: sr 



SlOaX GITY, IDWfl. 



may 18th and 19th, 1892 



NORFOUC SEB. 

Pbess Or The Va:l^ News- 

iSctz. 






■w^ 



OFFICEt^S OF THH SOCIETY. 



Major 1). W. Reed, President, 

Suite 814, Clmmber of Commerce, Chicago, 111. 
J. N. Weaver, Vice President, Bolton Jilock, Sioux City, Iowa. 
J. E. Simpson, Acting Secretary, Norfolk Nebraska. 
Dr. James Barr, Treasurer, Algona, Iowa. 

The above officers being the Executive Committee. 



The following members are a committee, each for his own compa- 
ny, to report the deaths of their comrades who may pass away, report- 
ing the time and place of death and such details of interest that may 
appear, to the members of the Regiment when next they meet in re- 
union. 

This is a very important duty and one that should be well attend- 
ed to. 

Co. A, R. P. Clarkson, Des Moines, Iowa. 

Co. B, J. D. Cole, Lansing, Iowa. 

Co. C, D. W. Reed, Suite 814, Chamber Commerce, Chicago, 111. 

Co. D, J. H. StiblDS, Rooms 88, P. (). Building, Chicago, 111. 

Co. E, J. W. Shumaker, Waterloo, Iowa. 

Co. F, R. W. Tirrell. Manchester, Iowa. 

Co, G, J. E. Simpson, NortV)lk. Neb. 

Co. H, J. A. Van Anda, Fremont, Neb. 

Co. I, J. F. Zediker, of Nebraska State Journal. Lincoln, Neb. 

Co. K, Dr. J. B. Morgan, Davenport, Iowa. 

Comrades who know or learn of any deaths of the members of the 
Regiment should report the facts to the proper member of the above 
Committee. 



///r^i/U/J A) .t/yiot^ 



^yi'^^" 



REUNION 

12tb Iowa Veteran Volanteer Infantry. 

MAY i8 & 19, 1892. 



Explanatory. 



Deak Comrades: — We think it best to commence the proceedings 
of our reunion by the circular letter sent you May 21st. It explains all 
the circumstances fully and gives tlie names and addresses of those 
wlio were present. There was a resolution passed by unanimous vote 
of all present that the present organization be continued until our 
next reunion; and all the officers and committees be requested to con- 
tinue in the discharge of their respective duties. 

Also another resolution that J. N. Weaver and .T. E. Simpson be a 
committee on puljlication of these proceedings. 

Also that R. W. Tirrel, J. H. Stibbs and Wm. L. Henderson act as 
committee on resolutions. 

One of the pleasant little episodes or our reunion was the visit 
from M. Deal, Esq., of Bucyrus, Ohio, who chanced to be in Sioux City 
and heard of our meeting, came and gave us a very interesting talk. 
Living- at Gettysburg at the time of the battle, he and his brother, 
were the flrst civihansover^ the field after the great battle and what 
he saw and heard at the tinie, he told to us. He contributed liberally 
to our contribution to the sufferers of the flood, for seeing with our 
own eyes the extent of the loss and suffering, tlie comrades present put 
together their mites, and sending the same by the liands of Comrade 



FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



Weaver, who returned with the following very handsome acknowledg- 
ment: 

Sioux City, May 19, 1892. 
To tlxJ! Vctemnn of the 12th louxt: — 

I have the lionor to acknowledge your contribution to the liood 
sufferers by the hand of Judge Weaver and beg to thank you kindly in 
behalf of the citixens of Sioux City. Fraternally yours. 

MoKuis PiEKCE, Mayor. 

Weighed down witli the cares of the hour and the constant de- 
mands upon him night and day Mayor Pierce found time to come and 
say a kindly word to us on Thursday evening. 

One thing we was all agreed ui^on and that was the character and 
quality of the music rendered for us by the K. P. Rand of twenty in- 
struments. Quiet and modest and always ready, they gave to us those 
good old tunes that carried us back to our soldier days, and brought 
the camp, the march and the field of thirty years ago back to us 
most vividly. 

Also that Col. Woods and Qtl. Edgerton's histories be made a part 
of and published in these proceedings. 

Comrade Andrews, of Co. B, offered the following resolution: Re- 
solved, that it is the sense of this meeting that our next reunion be 
held within the next two years at Sioux City, Iowa. After discussion, 
carried, with the understanding that this was the sense and feeling of 
those present, and the whole matter be left to the Executive Commit- 
tee for their action after hearing from the absent comrades. 

There has been a large number of letters received from comrades 
and there are a few coming yet in answer to the circular letter of May 
21st. The large majority say Sioux City and 1894, for our next meet- 
ing. This is a matter your Executive Committee will duly con.sider 
and act upon in due time. 

We desire to call your attention to the cai^ of your treasurer. Dr. 
James Barr, Algona. Iowa, for funds. Comrades must keep in mind 
postage and printing must be paid for, and we are now publishing 
these proceedings with less than half the cost in the treasury, trusting 
comrades will promptly remit their dues. 

Your committee desires to say that under the rules governing the 
railroads of the country that reduced fares cannot be had for regimen- 
tal reunions except in the state where held or the regiment was raised, 
hence we cannot get reduced fares only for the state of Iowa. 

We regret our proceedings were so short and incomplete, but the 
facts and circumstances have all been told to you. We have done the 
beet we could and trust our work will be received by you in the spirit 
we send it out. With love and kind greetings to you all, and wishing 
we may all meet at our next reunion and have a regular love feast of 
good things, we remain. Yours Truly. 

.Torn N. Weaver, 

J- E. SlJLPSON. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



Sioux City, Iowa, May 21, 1892. 

To the Members of the nth Iowa Infantry, Greeting: 

We who succeederl in gettinj? to Sioux City in time for our Fourth 
Quadrennial Reunion, thelSth and 19th of May, found, at the hour of 
assembling, this beautiful city overwhelmed with an unprecedented 
Hood, renderinghundreds homeless and thousands waiting for shelter. 

Of course, Wednesday forenoon, nothing could be done but shake 
hands and commence to register. In the afternoon it was deemed best 
to give up any attempt at a regular programme and simply visit, en- 
livened by the fine music of the band and cheering strains of the life 
and drum by comrades French and McKee, and anxiously waiting 
hour by hour, hoping that other comrades, whom we knew were en 
route, would be able to get here. Evening was spent much the same 
way. 

Thursday morning came bright and clear, and although the city 
was full of excitement, and every one's attention, both hands and 
heart, was turned to the duties of the hour, we met and resolved our- 
selves into an old-fashioned, Methodist love feast, in which every man, 
woman and child present, from Company A. to Company K. inclusive, 
was called upon for a speech, a song, a dance or a recitation, and just 
like all members of the old 12th, every one responded without hesitation. 
Enthusiasm grew, hearts melted, cares for the time being were thrown 
away and we had a good time; interspersed with all this were dispat- 
ches coming in every hour from comrades delayed en route, letters 
from absent ones were read, the Shubert Quartette and the K. P. 
Band (20 instruments), whose selections wereof the very best kind and 
pleased every one here, at frequent intervels enlivened the occasion 
added much to the enjoyment. 

Thursday night brought Gen. J. H. Stibbs, who had forced his 
way through (after a forty-eight hour march) from Des Moines. He 
took hold at once and entertained us with his pleasant remarks, a 
number of fine recitations and some amusing stories. All this time, 
remember we were hoping and expecting the comrades, who were de- 
tained at different points, would come in and share with us the pleas- 
ures of the occasion. Some of the comrades had to leave Thursday 
night, but a great bulk of them resolved to remain over Friday in 
hopes that otheis might come. 

Friday morning came with a snow storm, amounting almost to a 
blizzard, something almost unprecedented at this season, adding to 
the general distress and misery in the city and damping down our en- 
thusiasm till we got together, when, amid the inspiring sound of the 
fife and drum we continued our love feast, and soon the same warm, 
kind feelings were expressed and seen. 

Friday afternoon we appointed a committee on resolutions, re- 
solved to continue our organization with the same officers as at present, 
till the next reunion, requesting them to perform all the duties and 
act in the premises as their good judgement decided. There was a 
general and full expression that our next reunion must be held within 
the next two years. The idea of holding it in Chicago during the 
World's Fair was not favored, comrades fearing that, under the excite- 
ment and novelty of the surroundings, it would be impossible to enjoy 
what again has been clearly demonstrated to be the main object of re- 
unions of the 12th Iowa, to-wit: to visit' with each other and among 
ourselves. 

T>e citizens of Sioux City have expressed a warm and earnest de- 
sire that the next reunion might be held here. And it is but fair to 
say that the larger share of. those present were of that mind. Our old 



FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



home, Manchester, was warmly spoken of and many hearts turned 
that way. After very full discussion and expressions of opinion, tlie 
whole matter was left to the discretion of the Executive Committee, 
after hearing from the members of the regiment in response to this 
letter, which is sent to every living member known. 

We now ask of you, dear comrades, on receipt of this letter. 

(1) To send your membership fee of $1.00 to Dr. James Barr, Treas- 
urer, Algona, Iowa, so we can publish the proceedings of this reunion 
which will largely consist of letters and telegrams received, corrected 
rosters of the companies up to date, with Post Office address; also a 
personal history of Col. Woods, that we feel warranted in saying every 
man, woman and child connected with the 12th Iowa will read witli 
pleasure and prollt, it being a detailed history from his boyhood, writ- 
ten by Major Reed and revised by the Colonel hirhself, before his death. 
Also a full biographical notice of Col. Edgerton, and a notice of the 
death and the incidents thereof, of comrades who have died since 1888. 
Every pains will be taken to publish these proceedings as soon as pos- 
sible and a copy mailed to every member who has paid his dues. 

(2) We want you as soon as you get this letter and have carefully 
thought over the subject, to drop a postal card to the secretary, indi- 
cating where you want the next reunion held, and when you want it 
held. On the receipt of these answers they will be carefully collated 
and laid before the Executive Committee for their consideration and 
action in calling our next reunion. From the expression of those who 
were present and those who started or intended to come, we are fully 
satisfied that, if there had not been some unforeseen calamity, as did 
happen, we would have had the largest, one of the most enthusiastic 
reunions that the 12th Iowa ever had. 

It Is due to the citizens of Sioux City to say, that, acting conjointly 
with comrade J. N. Weaver, they provided for us a good hall, one of 
the best bands in the state(20 instruments), solely at our disposal 
during the reunion, paid printing expenses, amounting to over $30.00, 
so that practically, the expenses of the reunion, excepting the individ- 
ual ones of the comrades, were fully provided for by the citizens of 
Sioux City. They also had made elaborate preparations in connection 
with the reception of the boys, to decorate and place the city in holi- 
day attire in honor of the occasion, which was only prevented by the 
unprecedented storm and wind occurring at that time, which rendered 
it wholly impossible to make any decorations on the streets or build- 
ings in the city. 

They had also, in connection with the Woman's Relief Corps, made 
full arrangements to give the boys a royal banquet the evening of the 
9th, which, with the full concurrence and approbation of tlie com- 
rades present, was abandoned, and the funds provided for that purpose 
diverted to the relief of the suffering and hungry of the city, so ren- 
dered by the flood. 

Three large boat clubs, with elegant boat club houses and many 
boats at Riverside Park, on the Big Sioux River, which is beautifully 
located and the best pleasure resort, with facilities for boating, had 
prepared to throw open their boat houses, and tender for our use, 
their lx)ats for the pleasure of the occasion, free. 

The Electric Railway line, leading from the business part of the 
city to Riverside Park, a distance of about 4 miles, had made a rate 
for the boys to this pleasant resort of one fare for the round trij). 

A Reception Committee, consistng of twenty-five comrades and 
twenty-five citizens, provided with ai)i)ropriate badges, were ready to 
receive the comrades and do them every favor, which w;us only pre- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



vented by the unprecedented flood. Do not fail to answer this letter. 
We are, Respectfully and fraternally yours, 

D. V. Ellsworth. Company A Newman Grove, Neb. 



D. A. Armstrong 

R. M. Runkle 

Mrs. CM. Runkle, 

John P. Peck 

John Upstrom 

Hiram R. Andrews 

Mrs. H. R. Andrews 

John E. Kent 

W. A. Kent 

Mrs. W. A. Kent and child 

I. W.King 

J. W. Bysong 

J. B. Hazlett 

J. L. Jordan 

W. L. Henderson 

Georgia Henderson 

Mrs. Maude Ramsey 

P. R.Woods 

Mrs. E. O. Woods 

R. R. Soper 

Mrs. R. R. Soper 

Wm. M. Van Eman 

J. H. Stibbs 

A. M. Blanchard 

A. A. Stewart 

J. D. Fernner 

F. D. Thompson 

*L. M. Ayers 

John N. Weaver 

Mrs. J. N. Weaver 

Miss Katie Weaver 

Miss Daisy Weaver 

Miss Flora Weaver 

Miss Cora Weaver 

John V. G. Price 

Mrs. John V. G. Price 

B. P. Zuver 

Mrs. B. P. Zuver 

Master B. P. Zuver 

B. E. Eberhart 

C. D. Morris 

J. P. Cook 

Mrs. J. P.Cook -.. 

Miss Laone Cook 

S. J. Crowhurst 

Sylvester Cook 

R. W. Terrill 

Mrs. R. W. Terrill 

Nelson Ralston 

F. W. Coolidge 

Mrs. F. W. Coolidge 

T. R. McKee 

Isaac J ohnson 

S. M. French 

J. E. Eldridge 

John Bremner.' 



.Zearing, Iowa. 
.Plankinton, So. Dakota 



.Sioux Falls, " " 
Turkey River, Iowa. 



C Belle Plaine, Iowa. 

" Barron, Wis. 



Emerick, Neb. 

West Point, Neb. 

.Sioux Falls, So. Dakota. 

Alton, Kan. 

Riceville, Iowa. 



" Fayette, Iowa, 

'■.... " " 

D Estherville, Iowa. 



. . .Grand View, So. Dakota. 

— Chicago, Ills. 

.11 Edward Street, Chicago. 

, . . Carthage, Mo. 

Nevada, Iowa. 



.Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 
Sioux City, Iowa. 



D Mountain Grove, Mo. 

' ■ Adams, Neb. 



. Marshalltown, Iowa. 
.Worthing, So. Dakota. 
Ponoa, Neb. 



" Salem, So. Dakota. 

" lona. Neb. 

F Manchester, Iowa. 



.Canton, So. Dakota. 
— Shoshone. Idaho. 



Denver, Col. 

Pleasanton, Kan. 

Denver, Col. 

Stark, Kan. 

.Yankton, So. Dakota. 



ly 



FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



Peter Moc Company G Springfield, Minn. 



Olc (Jilbertson. 

Samuel West " 

Mrs. Samuel West " 

Henry Steen " 

J. E. Simpson " 

Mrs. Mary A. Simpson... " 

Lars L. Staliem " 

*A. H. (Jroves 

*G. H. Nass 

A. S. Fuller 

Josepli A. Light " 

Mrs. .1. A. Light 

J. H. Fleiiiken 

.J. A. Van Anda " 

Mrs. J. A. Van Anda " 

Master Van Anda " 

J.W.Ward 

J. M. Crosby 

Master Rov Crosby " 

Wm. H. Dupray " 

Mrs. Wm. H. Dupray " 

Master Wm. Dupray " 

E.C.Cobb 

John S. Ray 

Master J. S. Ray " 

D. D. McCullum 

Wm. Koehler " 

Mrs. Wm. Koehler " 

J. F. Butters 

Mrs. J. F. Rutters " 

MissO. r. Butters " 

Miss Stella liutters " 

O. R. Goodenow 

W. R. Mathis 

E. R. Mathis 

Alonzo Robinson " 

W.H.Ellison 

Charles Rademacher " 

*ArriYed after adjournment. 



• Gilchrist, Minn. 
.Red Cloud, Neb. 



Belgrade, Neb. 
.Norfolk, Neb. 



" Sioux City. Iowa. 

" Decorah, '' 



" Sioux Falls, So. Dakota. 

H Norfolk, Neb. 



.Battle Creek, 
Fremont, 



Burlington, Iowa. 

Yankton, So. Dakota. 

a u u 

Sioux City, Iowa. 



" Keokuk, 

' ' Naponee, Neb. 



Sibley, Iowa. 

Dubuque, " 



.Sioux City, 



" Ord, Neb. 

K 2586 Decatur St., Omaha. 

" 1100 4th Av. Council Blfs. 

" Cedar Rapids, Neb. 

" vSt. Edwards, Neb. 

" Sioux City, Iowa. 

JonN N. Wkavkr, President, 

Sioux City, Iowa. 
J. E. Simpson, Secretary, 

Norfolk, Nebraska. 



The following verses were composed and written by the talented 
and beautiful young daughter of our Comrade J. N. Weaver, under the 
inspiration and spirit of the occasion. We know comrades will appre- 
ciate .the sentiments so kindly and beautifully expressed by our fair 
young comrade: 

THE GALLANT TWELFTH. 

Ye comrades of the Gallant Twelfth, 

Who fought long years ago, 
Your hair grows gray, and fails your health,. 

Your steps are getting slow. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. Y. INFANTRY. 11 



But brightly gleams your honest eye 

When telling o'er once more 
The stirring tales of gallant deeds, 

From '61 to '4. 

The worthiest people in the land. 

Are you, who bravely fought 
To save the gallant stripes and stars, 

And a great success you wrought. 

And furthermore, I here would say 

Tliat your numbers, howe'er few. 
Deserve the best that can be had, 
Three cheers for the boys in blue. 

—Flora B. W. 
May 20, 1892. 

None of the comrades present will forget how pleased we all were 
on the evening of the second day to greet the smiling face of Gen. J. 
H. Stibbs, who, after a "forced march" of two days and nights at last 
got to us. His kindly words and his cheerful ways was as a gleam of 
sunshine amid the gloom, and his rendition of 

"Decoration on the Place," 

"Old Man Jim," 

"Only Room in the Procession for but One Flag," 

"Down to Washington," 

"Barbara Fritche," 

"Snyder's Ride," 

"Marion Coming Home," 

"The Man with the Musket," and 

"Two Opinions," 
will linger in the memories of those Who heard him for many a long 
year. 

Comrade J. W. Shumaker, Co. "E," reports as died since our last 
reunion: Comrades A. Myers, of Shell Rock, Iowa; J. E. Jones, Gene- 
va, Iowa, and James Demoss. The dates of death and details he was 
unable to get. 

Mrs. C. E. Phillips, of Blair, Neb., writes of the death of our com- 
rade and her husband, late Co. "K." She says in his last sickness he 
often spoke of his old comrades of the 12th Iowa, in words of aifection 
and kindness. He was with us at Waterloo and she speaks ot how 
much he enjoyed the reunion there. 

Since our last reunion "Taps" have sounded for our Comrade E, V. 
Andrus, Co. "G," Decorah, Iowa. He was a brave, loyal soldier, who 
did every duty well. Peace and rest has come to him at last. He lies 
with many of his comrades in the beautiful cemetery "on the hill" in 
full sight of the ''Upper Iowa Valley" he loved so well. 



12 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

Talcott, S. D., May 3, 1892. 
D. W. Eccd. 

My Dear Comrade:— As the time for the next reunion draws 
near, I take the liberty to send you the following, as It is possible you 
might not be aware of all the facts: 

About the time of our reunion at Waterloo, Iowa, Sergt. Emery 
Clark, of Co. "C" 12th Iowa Infantry, "died at the Black Hills, S. D. 

You will doubtless remember that he was severely wounded, hav- 
ing both jaw bones broken at the battle of Tupelo, Miss., July 14, 1864. 
He was picked up on the field where he had fallen, unconscious, and 
kindly cared for by our hospital corps. On July 15 he was taken pris- 
oner with tlic other wounded of tiiat battle, remained at Tupelo for 
about a week when all were taken to Mobile, Ala., where they arrived 
about July 25. On the surrender of Forts Gaines and Morgan to Com. 
Farragut, all wounded prisoners were removed to Castle Morgan pris- 
on, at Cahaba, Ala. He was a prisoner at that place until Nov. 23, 
1864. when he started for Charleston, S. C, to be exchanged— an agree- 
ment having been entered into for the exchange of 1,000 sick. On the 
day of his arrival at Macon, Ga., en-route for Cliarleston, Gen. Sher- 
man, on his glorious "march to the sea," had cut the road to Charles- 
ton. Sergt. Clark was therefore imprisoned at Macon for a short time^ 
when all the prisoners at that place were sent to Andersonville. He 
was confined at that notorious prison until the close of the war and 
was released at Jacksonville, Fla., April 29, 1865. 

It is customary to lavish praise on those who, like the I2th at Shi- 
loh the "Hornet's Nest," withstand the desperate attacks of the ene- 
my and call their conduct heroic, and rightly too, but what sluill we 
say of the conduct of Sergt. Clark who daily endured the pangs of a 
slow starvation while almost rotting with scurvey in Southern prison 
pens yet remained unfalteringly true to the old flag, not yielding to 
the temptation daily offered, nay, urged upon him, not even when it 
seemed that his life depended upon it. Such conduct marks a heroism 
in a man beside which the facing of the enemy in the field pales into 
insignificance. 

Not many are called upon to suffer as much for their country a& 
Comrade Clark suffered for his. Let us hope and trust that the God 
of battles will deal mercifully with him and with us all, and tluit 
when the last trumpet shall sound, he may, with all of the old 12tli> 
Iowa, be found on the "right side'' as he was in the hour of our coun- 
try's danger. 

I give you these facts concerning Comrade Clark, as with a single 
exception— Ccmrade Kohler, of Co. "I"— I am the only on-e of the 12tli 
Iowa who was with him all the time of his second imprisonment. 
You can make such use of them as you desire. I do not know the date 
nor place of his death, but am assured of the truth of the statement 
that he died about the time given. I am your old comrade, 

T AV OoTE^ 
Late of Co. "I,'"' 12th Iowa. 

Marshalltown, Iowa, May 21, 1892. 
/. E. Sim2:)son, Norfolk, Nebraska. 

Dear Comrade: — I was under the impression while at the reuniom 
that one of the 12th boys had died at the home. Upon my arrival 
here this a. m. I looked the matter up and found that Able C. Gil- 
more, of Co. "H," 12th Iowa, died December 18th, 1891, and that his. 
body was sent to Indianapolis, IimI., to his wife, Elizabeth Gilmore. 

Yoiu's- truly,. B. E. Eberhart, 



• TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 13 

'I'lie following sketch of our late comrade and president of our as- 
sociation, Col. S. R. Edgington, was prepared and written at the re- 
quest of your committee by the Rev. C. F. McLean, of Eldora, Iowa, 
brother-in-law of our late comrade: 

OBITUARY OF COL. S. R. EDGINGTON. 

Col. Samuel R. Edgington was born near Mansfield, Richland 
county, Ohio. May 12, 1827, and died at Eldora, Iowa, May 20, 1888, 
having thus reached the H2nd year of his age. He was the son of 
Judge Jesse Edgington. His youth and early manhood were chiefly 
spent at the old Edgington farm homestead in Richland county, Ohio, 
where he was born and where his gian( father had settled many years 
before, having purchased the land of the United States government. 
The military instinct early showed itself in his enlistment for the 
Mexican war when he was eighteen years old. He was away from 
home attending college at the time and volunteered with others," join- 
ing the Ninth Ohio Infantry, under Col. S. R. Curtis. After doing 
good service in the Mexican war he returned with his regiment to Ohio 
and was honorably discharged. 

May 8th, 18-19, he was married to Miss Lois Real, in Richland coun- 
ty. Oh if). 

In the fall of 1852 he came with his wife to Iowa and in the follow- 
ing spring settled in Hardin county, same state, and were among the 
first families that located at Eldora, the county seat. Here the fami- 
ly have since resided and here the three sons of the Colonel were born 
and grew to manhood's estate. 

Shortly after he came to Eldora, Col. Edgington engaged in the 
mercantile business and continued in the same until 1861. That year 
he responded a second time to his country's call and enlisted for three 
years or during the war of the Rebellion. He soon raised the first 
company of soldiers for the 12th Iowa Volunteer Infantry and was im- 
mediately, and by unanimous vote, elected captain of the same. Com- 
pany "A" was composed mostly of Hardin county young men and as 
brave and splendid a lot of soldiers as ever marched to the field of 
strife. 

The regiment camped a while at Dubuque and then at St. Louis. 
Then came the advance southward. Then came Fort Henry, Donal- 
son and Shiloh, the two last among the greatest and bloodiest battles 
of all history. There were terrible experiences for fresh recruits, but 
our men of the 12th Iowa made a glorious record for themselves on 
those fields. Said Col. Edgington in his speech at the reunion at Des 
Moines, Oct. 1887, referring to the famous Iowa "Hornet's Nest Brig- 
ade" and its conduct at Shiloh, April 6, 1862: "These veterans are not 
unknown. Their deeds of heroism at the battle of Shiloh are the ad- 
miration of every city of our own state and nation. For ten long hours 
they held their battle line and saved the day until night and Buell 
came. History has not done full justice to these brave men. Three 



f^ FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

of these regiments, the Sth. 12th and 14th, were captured by the rebel 
army that day just as the sur; was hiding behind the western horizon, 
April (ith, 18(i2. They endured their captivity and sutt'ering like grand 
heroes for seven long months, without a raunuer, in the prison hells of 
tlie South. Rut the grandest heroes of that bloody day at Shiloh and 
the '"hornet's nest" and "hell's holljw'' were those who died fighting 
•when surrounded by such fearful odds." One point made by Col. Edging- 
ton in the above extract was this, that while his brigade sustained the 
tlrst terrible onslaught of the rebel host in the early morning of that 
eventful day tiiey held their own all day and were not captured until 
nightfall, whereas the impression has been given that they were cap- 
tured and hurried otT the field before noon. Some time during the 
struggle at Shiloh, Col. Wood, of the 12th, was stricken down and Col. 
Edgington assumed command and fought bravely with his men until 
obliged to surrender to superior numbers. 

lie and his two younger brothers, all of the same company, passed 
weary months of prison life in the South and the youngest of the three 
was brought home to die. 

vSome time after the exchange of prisoners the 12th Iowa was reor- 
ganized at Davenix)rt and proceeding to St. Louis was there re-joined 
by S. R. Edgington, now regular commissioned Major and afterwards 
Lieutenant-Colonel. The regiment was soon ordered to Vlcksburg and 
participated in the whole of that memorable siege. At Brandon, at 
Raymond and twice at Jackson, Miss., they took an active part with 
their commander and made this series of battles so successful in de- 
termining the fate of the rebellion. A comrade relates this incident 
in the Dubuciue Times: "The day that the 12th Iowa arrived at Jack- 
son, Miss., on their way to Vicksburg, they were ordered to lie down 
some distance outside of the confederate works. They did not have a 
Brussels carpet to recline ui)on but instead a very damp i)iece of 
ground. It had been raining three days before tlie regiment reached 
Jackson and Col. Edgington, who knew that the boys were tired and 
would as lief charge as not, rode out in front of the regiment with the 
brave Gen'l Mower and in about ten minutes came back saying "Boys 
we can take those works and not half try." Then old Gen'l Mathias 
gave the order to charge and the yell that those wet Northern boys 
gave was enough to scare even the ghosts of the Southern confederacy. 
We took those works — it was no trouble — and after a day or two we 
went on to Yicksburg." 

The Col. was a man of few words and seldom if ever was heard to 
refer to his own achievements in the war, but enough is known to jus- 
tify the remark that he never tlinched from duty as a soldier and nev- 
er required his men to face any danger where he did not lead the way 
himself. In all probability not a few bold exploits and dangerous skir- 
mishes in which he engaged have never been recorded save in the 
uiemory of his war associates. 

In 18(1'^ he was honorably discliarged and returned to his home in 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 15 

Eldora, Io\v;i, thereafter to cultivate the arts of peace and to iDiiild up 
the interests of society. He never forgot his old comrades but always 
delighted to mingle with them in their reunions and recount the stir- 
ring incidents of the war. He was high authority on military law and 
jurisprudence. He had thoroughly studied this difficult subject, es- 
pecially in its application to army discipline. A well informed army 
man who was with him much of the time during the service and has 
since become a prominent and successful lawyer, says that Col. Ed- 
gington was the best posted man in such matters that lie knew of in 
the volunteer army. He was fre(iuently consulted on this subject and 
became a sort of encyclopedia of military law. The Colonel was not in 
sound health much of his time after his discharge from the service. 
Doubtless the exposure of the camp and the field predisposed his sys- 
tem to a complication of disorders that culminated in diabetes and 
ended his life. But he never complained of his affliction and always 
spoke cheerfully to those enquiring after his health. He refused to 
take to his bed almost to the last and not until he was unable to help 
himself. His record is made up and his history is with as. He has 
left to the world the example of a brave and honorable man whose 
memory all would do well to cherish. 
Mr. President and Comrades: 

To me has been assigned the painful duty of announcing in this 
formal and public mannei' the death, since our last reunion, of our 
Colonel Joseph Jackson Woods, at his liome at Montana, Kansas, Sep- 
tember 27th, 1889. As soon as I received word that I was expected to 
perform this duty, I at once wrote the family of Col. Woods and re- 
ceived in reply the following letter from his daughter Miss Carrie 
Woods, that 1 now I'ead to you. 

Pausons, Kas., Feb. 24, 1892. 
Lieut. J. E. Simpson, NorfoR- Nebraska. 

Dear Sir: Your letter of the 8th inst. asking for data in regard to 
the events of my beloved father's life, etc. was (after some delay) 
received. 

I send you a manuscript sketch of the important events of his life, 
which we found among his papers after his death. The manuscript 
was written by some one, we know not whom, and was sent to my 
fatlier for correction. It was to be published in a history of his regi- 
ment, or of Iowa Colonels or some such book. All we know about it is 
that my father told my mother that he had received the sketcli but 
had not yet felt able to correct it. Perhaps you can find out at the re- 
union wiio wrote it. If you can, please deliver it to him and notify us. 
1 have made a copy of it. Father had corrected i part, if not all of it, 
wliich will be seen by the pencil markings and certain interlinings 
which I recognize as his writing. 

After his service in the Kansas Legislature my father devoted his 
time to farming and stock raising, and took no part in active public 
life with the exception of making political and temperance speeches 
occasionally. He was als-o a notary public and a member of the school 
board for a great number of years. 

In 1888, the Union Labor politicians lauding their doctrines, so 



16 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

destructive to the principles of government, throughout the state, so 
aroused my fatiier's indignation tiiat lie spent^ much time and energy 
in making speeches for the cause of llepublicanisni, and. we fear, 
shortened his life thereby. 

Below is an extract copied from a newspaper which refers to his 
presence at a congressional convention held at Fredonia, Wilson coun- 
ty, in 1888: 

"The first delegate on the ground was Col. J. .]. Woods, of Monta- 
na. He got in Tuesday at noon, aliead of everybody. 

Col. Woods was a West Point graduate and a Lieutenant in the 
"old army." At Sliiloh he commanded an Iowa reginient, was badly 
wounded, and was among those captured with tlie division of General 
l*rentiss. Tliough old inyeai'sand (luite feeble, he made one of the 
most earnest, patriotic and elo(iuent speeches delivered in the conven- 
tion." 

Many times he spoke endearingly of tlie "Boys"' of the 12th and 
particularly when tne time came around for the annual reunion of the 
regiment. He ])rized his cane very highly. 

When appeals for aid in securing pensions came to him he always 
did what he could to assist, but many limes expres.sed legret that he 
could not remember the facts desired. 

Though not united with any churcli, his religious belief was Uni- 
tarian, and he read many Unitarian works during the latter years of 
his life. 

During the last five years of his life he was in feeble health. He 
was a constant sufferer from chronic diarrluea, which he contracted 
during the service. He retained his mental vigor to the last. 

In the summer before his death he l)ouglit a home in Parsons, 
twelve miles fiom Montana, and was preparing to move to it to enjoy 
the sunset of life in rest from labor. 

He returned one evening from a drive to Parsons very sick and suf- 
fered intensely for three days. He had hemorrhage of the bladder and 
suppression of the kidneys, and afterwards blood poisoning set in. 
Tlirough all of his sickness he was patient and cheerful, and at times 
even humorous. He hoped to live but was ready tor death if it must 
come. For several days before his death he was almost constantly de- 
lirious, and fought again the battles of the war. 

He died, apparently without pain, after an illness of ten days, on 
the morning of the 2Ttii day of September, 1889. He was buried in the 
beautiful cemetery of Oakwood at Parsons, Kansas, a part of which is 
set apart and nicely arranged for the graves of the soldiers. 

The Grand Army of the Republic, of which he had been a mem- 
ber, performed the burial service. 

I can tliink of nothing more of particular interest, though it would 
take many pages to recount his many good and noble deeds; and the 
loss to his family and friends occasioned l3y his death, words cannot 
exjiress. 

I send best wishes to the surviving comrades. 

Yours respectfully, Carrie Woods. 

Thus I found my work already done and by an abler nen than 
mine, and reviewed by the Colonel himself before his death. I, am 
sure this personal history of our beloved Colonel, written with so much 
care by the historian of our regiment. Major D. W. Reed, when made 
a part of the proceedings of this session, will be read and treasured by 
you around your liresides and in your homes, and will be a lesson, well 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. IT 

to teach your children and their children, of a noble, true, good man, 
who, from early youth, without the advantages of birth or fortune, 
won the love and esteem of all with whom he came in contact with, 
and did every duty, in all the positions in which he was placed, well 
and faithfully. A tower of strength to those with whom he came in 
contact, with a stern, rigid integrity, a love of principle and right, he 
never faltered nor hesitated for a moment to do and to say what he 
deemed to be the right. Modest, dith'dent almost to a fault, never 
pushing himself forward or making any claims for himself, but per- 
forming every duty given to him with abili'.y, no wonder he soon won 
the love and esteem of those wh(j knew him. Every man and officer of 
the regiment, as they came to know him, learned to love and respect 
him. Those of us who were present at our first reunion at Manchester 
twelve years ago, remember with pleasure his visit to us then, and our 
pleasure to find, when he commenced to talk to us, he was an eloquent 
speaker, his burning words are still ringing in our ears, when accept- 
ing our gift of a gold headed cane, he spoke of leaning on it in his de- 
clining years, and turning to our battle torn flags to our right, he said: 
"If rebel hands are again raised against that dear old flag, I will c(jme 
back from my far distant Kansas home and standing on the prairies of 
Delaware county, I will raise my voice as never before, and give the 
command, "Fall in 12th Iowa," and every one of the survivors will 
respond to my cry in defense of the Union and our dear old flag." 

Our beloved commander is resting, his work is done, he has but 
gone before. We must quickly follf)w. "Taps" will soon sound for us 
all. and we answer to the "roll call" for the last time. 

And now my dear comrades I commend you to the history of thi ^ 
truly good man who was our Colonel. Of him in his lifetime could 
have been truly said: 

"His words are bonds, his oaths are oracles, 
"His love sincere, his thoughts immaculate, 
"His tears pure messengers sent from his heart, 
"His heart as far from fraud as Heaven from earth. 

J. E. Simpson. 



OBITUARY OF COL. JOS. JACKSON WOODS. 

Colonel Joseph Jackson Woods was born on the 11th day of Jan- 
uary, 1823, on a farm in Brown county, Ohio. His ancestors came from 
Ireland but were not of the Irish race. Some of them were in Lon- 
donderry during the famous siege of that place in 1689. 

His grandfather, James Woods, came to America in the year 1773, 
and settled in Pennsylvania where the father of the subject of this 
sketch, Samuel Woods, was born in that same year, 1773. James 
Woods was engaged during a part of the Revolution in furnishing sup- 
plies to the army. The mother of Joseph Jackson Woods was born in 



18 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

Ireland in 1785, and came to America at the asre of six or seven j'ears. 
Her maiden name was Ritchev. Joseph was the youngest son that ar- 
rived at mature age of a numerous family, his father being at the time 
of his birth ttfty years old, and having been in his prime a man of 
more than average ability among the farming class to which he be- 
longed, but while Joseph was yet young his father became a physical, 
financial and mental wreck, so that at the age of ten years Joseph was 
thrown upon the world to succeed by his own resources, and went with 
an older brother, John, just then married, to Hush county, Indiana, 
where they settled in the dense forest. 

He remained in Indiana two years and then returned to Ohio and 
lived with his relatives until he was fourteen years old, when he was 
apprenticed to Joseph Parish (late private secretary to President Grant 
to sign land patents) in Felicity, Clermont county, Ohio, to learn the 
saddler's trade. 

In his early boyhood while at school, which was but a small part 
of the time, he learned rapidly, being in advance of other children of 
his age. He never attended the public schools after his thirteenth 
year. 

He served five years apprenticeship with Mr. Parish, working for 
his board and clothing, and became very proficient in the trade, work- 
ing in the winter season until 9 o'clock p. m. five nights of the week, 
he had but little time for mental culture, but fortunately his cousin, 
Dr. Allen Woods, about this time married a Miss Whipiile, of Ver- 
mont, a lady of tine culture, who, becoming interested in young Woods, 
proposed to become his private tutor. Under this arrangement, by 
improving every spare moment, he complete.! a course of arithmetic, 
English grammar, gef)graphy and obtained a fair knowledge of history 
from books kindly loaned from the library of Dr. J. M. Woods. 

At expiration of his apprenticeship the Rev. Mr. Ervine, Presby- 
terian minister and graduate of Ohio State University, informed 
young Woods that as he was about to review his Latin and Greek 
studies, he would willingly take a pupil and give instructions in these 
branches free of charge as a more thorough method of making his re- 
view. Under this arrangement young Woods pursued his studies sev- 
en months, working mornings and evenings in the saddlery shop to 
pay his board. The first Methodist college established in America 
was located at Augusta, Ky., seven miles from Felicita, Ohio. It was 
under the joint patronage of the Ohio and Kentucky conferences of 
the M. E. church, each conference entitled to keep at the college a 
certain number of students free of tuition, these to be selected by the 
presiding elders of the various districts from worthy young men of 
limited means. The Rev. W. H. Roper, presiding elder of the district, 
gave young Woods the appointment, and he entered the freshman 
class in that institution the same year. Although free tuition was 
provided he found it difficult to provide for board, clothing and books. 
Therefore, by advice of Dr. Woods, he applied for an appointment to 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



19 



U. S. Military Academy at West Point to take the place of U S Grant 
who would graduate the following June. 

His principal recommendations were from Hon. Alonzo Knowles 
the leading Democratic politician at Felicita, Ohio, and Jesse r' 

f^^n!;^"'^' r''" :'' ^'''^'^' °^*"- ^^'''^ ^^^« '^''^'^^ competitors 
for the appointment and Dr. Daans, member of Congress, declinincr to 
make a selection, sent the papers to the war department. where\he 
appointment was given to Woods and he entered the academy in June 
l.m Seventy-five were appointed to this class; thirty-eight gradu- 

TilVv'- 7r'' '''''''''''' ""'■ ' '" '''' ''^''- !>"-"/ the last year 
at West Point he was assistant professor as well as student. July 1st 

US A^,T"'''^^^' appointment as 2d Lieutenant in first regiment 
US. Artillery. The war with Mexico was at its height and he was 
ordered to New York harbor to drill and organize recruits for the war 
Where he remained until October 10th, when out of these recruits 
C..mpan,es L and M, 1st Artillery were organized and Lieutenant 
Woods was ordered to proceed with said company to Vera Cruz Mexi- 

Norulf mTx/cI" '" "^"^^^^"^ "' ''' ^^^'^'^ ^- ''^' '-^ -^*^-^^' ^" 

'•Fn.^nil''''™T^'"'^ 'fu^ ^'^^^ ^'^ York, October 10th, on the ship 
Empire The weather was boisterous and after four days of invisi^- 
ble sun the ship ran upon a coral reef entirely covered by water break- 
ing a large hole in the vessel, when she settled down and broke in two 
They were by captain's reckoning fifty miles from shore, but upon its 
partially clearing off they perceived a small uninhabited island called 
Fowl Key about one-half a mile distant, and daylight brought to view 
Abaco, the largest of the Bahama group, at a distance of about five 
miles Wreckers came to the assistance of the ship, and about 10 
oclocka.m. they landed the soldiers on Fowl Key, where thev re- 
mained one week. Vessels were then procured to take a part of the 
comriiand to Charleston, South Carolina; the balance with Lieutenant 
Woods was taken to Nassau, New Providence, since famous as the 
rendezvous for rebel cruisers. Remaining here eight days he then, in 
company with Lieut. Morris, sailed for Charleston, where they re- 
mained at Fort Moultrie until December 25th, 1847, when they again 
sailed tor Vera Cruz in the ship "Republic," sent out from New York 
for that purpose. 

On 1st of January, 1848, as they were entering port of Vera Cruz a 
terrible norther struck the vessel, carrying them out to sea. Thev 
finally landed January 5th, and found that a majority of the regiment 
ui7n n ^"^ command was assigned was on garrison duty in the city, 
but Co. C, to which Lieut. Woods had been assigned, was in Northern 
Mexico. Woods was therefore transferred to Co. M and assigned to 
duty with the regiment at Vera Cruz. In the month of May he had 
the yellow fever and was very sick. About August 1st, 1848, peace 
having been declared Vera Cruz was evacuated and our troops imme- 



20 



FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



diately.imbarked for New York. Companies L and M took passage 
upon the screw-propeller "Massacluisetts.' 

m October, 1848, Woods was promoted to 1st Lieutenant, and No- 
! .innriS48 embarked on board -Massaeliusetts" with compa- 
vember Otb, 1848,^e^^^^^^^^ clisrurbances recently arisen there in 

wbU-t " Wllluna^-lnd aUmber of other Missourians ha^ been 
,. ui TiH^ oxnedition was under the command of Brevet Majoi 
;';:;:;:;'; am LeX W,; ds was his charter master and commissary. 
naihcxva> «^"^^ . in Oregon. On the passage 

These were the 'l^^,"-^^; '^^^^^.^ port at Rio Janeiro, Brazil, and 
about 'X"!!^'^^^'^ C mce^s an opportunity of seeing the 
remamedseveialda^N g^^ tropical fruits were growing, the 

?;^orier;ndo?hf peaces of interest. Lieut. Woods was tai.en 
C.Ttht^clventof the monks of St. Bernardine and was present 
!^ imp' S^hap.lwi.en the Emperor and Empress partook ot mul- 

night mass, the going out of the year ot 1848. 

T^:^l"^Xt^^^n. week on the strait, ^f^^^^^^^^ 
uli^h? and such distances as would insure good harloo.s b n ght 
rueweretw<. convict settlementsont^ and sonie Indian.. 

Tie office en oved frequent rambles on the shore. At Valparaiso, 
C i i The • we e shown specimens of gold recently takcTi from newly 
di c'vered gold mines of California. The next point made was Sand- 
. , T iMnrU Where thev arrived in tlfty-two days and remained eight 
divs tC' ; e c n tantly feted by the king as theirs was the first 

Er=^rofNrt/arir^^.ed^^ 

Thev i^oceede up the river ninety miles to Fort Vancouver, then 

a,.tto wS Wc.,,ds ,>.,w bcl.,n,«,. landed, and Co. M were <„de,ecl 
"' ^'intnHm"'!' 18.^0 Lieut. Woods with Co. L was .;emovcd io Astoria 

,« tl.pv rould find in the woods upon the mountains. 

At an he time Lieut. Woods went In a row boat w,th the collec- 

.,r X:tu. ot Astoria and a ^^^^^Z^S^^^^^ 

:;;i';;r;t':Sn r:;;: m.:uZf tL'^-^v^ "Ti:^%o,ieetor tr,ed t. 

01^™.' the laMcrs hanging over the side, but failed, when L.eut, 



TWELFTPT IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



Woods and one man -mounted the ladders and reached the deck when 
ropes were cut by ships crew. The ladders fell into the collectors boat 
and he pulled for shore, leaving the Lieutenant on board, but calling 
back to him that he would come for him in the morning. The ship 
hoisted anchor and immediately put to sea. The collector procured a 
pilot boat, armed with a canon, and gave chase, but after a few hours 
pursuit and firing a few sliots the pilot boat gave up the chase. After 
a tedious run the ship put into a recently discovered bay in the north- 
ern part of California called Humbolt Bay, where several vessels were 
loading with timber for San Francisco. On one of these the Lieut, 
procured passage to San Francisco, and from there secured passage to 
Astoria, where he arrived after an involuntary absence of six weeks. 

In April, 1851, Lieut. Woods was ordered with a detachment of 
men to the Dalles of the Columbia, east of Cascade range, where, in 
the heart of the Indian country, he commanded a small post for eigh- 
teen months, the only military post at the time and he the only com- 
missioned officer between the Cascade mountains and Fort Laramie. 

In September, 1852, he returned to Fort Vancouver, which had 
now become a large post and headquarters of the 4th U. S. Infantry, 
and at which place was then stationed several men since famous in 
history, among them U. S. Grant. 

In February, 1853, Lieut. Woods received orders to report to the 
superintendent of recruiting service in New York City. He sailed on 
the 10th of February and reached his destination via San Francisco 
and Panama. 

In June. 1853, he received leave of absence and visited Iowa and 
bought land in Clinton and Jackson counties. On October 15th, 1853, 
lie resigned his commission in the army and removed to his lands in 
Iowa. 

In September he married Miss Kezia Hight in Jones county, Iowa. 
He resided on a farm in Jackson county, Iowa, until the rebellion 
broke out, when he tendered his services to the governor of Iowa and 
was commissioned Colonel of the 12th Iowa Infantry, October 23d, 
1861. 

From the organization of the regiment to the siege of Vicksburg, 
the historv of the 12th Iowa is Col. Wood's history; "during that time 
he was never absent from his command while they were in the field 
as an organization, except for a short time when he commanded the 
brigade to which the 12th belonged. He was always the same quiet 
self-possessed commanding officer, yet possessing so little of "show" 
usual in officers of the regular army, but he attracted attention only 
by true merit. • 

He was with the regirtient in its first move from Dubuque to St. 
Louis, always present and carefully watching the interests of his men, 
seeing them tlioughtfully provided for during the epidemic of measles 
and pneumonia at St. Louis. His persistent effort secured tlieir equip- 



22 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

ment with the best arms then known in the service, the Enfield rifle. 
He was with them in tlieir llrst camp at Sniitlilield and rode calmly 
at their head during the effort to reach the rear of Fort Henry in 
time to capture the fleeing enemy. He shared the same hardships as 
his men, at Donaldson lying in the snow and sleet without blanket or 
Are, and charged bravely at their head when the flnal assault was 
made and received from Col. Cook, commander of the brigade, especial 
mention for his efficient and gallant services. 

At Sliiloh he carefully formed his regiment along the old road, 
and behind the old fence, and having, as he says, received personal in- 
struction from General Grant to "Hold that position at all hazards," 
he held it until Uie enemy had driven back the troops of Sherman on 
the right and Ilurlburt on the left, thus leaving the 12tli Iowa entire- 
ly surrounded. Yet undismayed and perfectly cool, we heard his com- 
mand as if on parade, "12th Iowa, about face! Commence tiring!"' and 
turning found a line of tlie enemy drawn up in our rear but they were 
soon broken by our tire, tlien his command, "By the left flank, double 
quick, march!" and the Hrst line of the enemy was passed, only to en- 
counter the second. At this point Col. Woods received two wounds in 
quick succession, one in the leg, the other in the wrist, s.> being dis- 
mounted he fell into the enemy's hands and was assaulted by some 
Texas troups with the design of taking his life, but being at that mo- 
ment recognized by Gen. Hardee with whom he had been acquainted 
at West Point and in tlie regular army, he was given a special guard, 
and his orderly permitted to remain with him. Tlie Col. spent tiie 
night on the ground where he fell, expjsed to the Are of our gun boats 
and the drizzling rain. Gen. Prentiss, present at the time of the sui- 
render and taken prisoner with the rest, speaks in highest tejms of 
the conduct of Col. Woods, and says: "To the persistent flghting of 
these four regiments, 8th, 12th and 14th Iowa, and 58th Illinois, hold- 
ing tlie ground against such j earful odds is due the failure of Beaure- 
gard to drive our forces into the river." Gen. Tuttle, in his official re- 
Ijort says: "Col. Woods, of the 12th Iowa, particularly distinguished 
himself; he was twice wounded and captured and when the enemy 
was driven back on Monday he was re-capDured." 

When our forces advanced on Monday morning Col. Woods was re- 
captured and his wounds dressed. 

He was soon after seni North and was immediately detailed on re- 
cruiting service, remaining on such duty until his regiment was ex- 
changed, January, 18(53, when he immediately took the fleld again and 
was soon ordered with his regiment to join Gen. Grant in the fleld in 
front of Vicksburg. 

Ret»orting with his regiment at Duckport, La., April 14th, 18G3, 
he was assigned to the command of the 3rd Brigade, 3rd Division of 
the 15th Army Corps. His Brigade consisted of the 8th, 12th and 35th 
Iowa Regiments. 

About May 5th he was relieved of the command of the Brigade by 



TWELFTH IOWA V. Y. INFANTRY. 23 

Col. Mathias, of the 5tli Iowa, and returned to the command of his 
regiment, which he retained during the campaign in the rear of Vicks- 
burg including the battle of Jackson. 

On June 1st he again assumed command of the Brigade, and re- 
tained the command of the Brigade or Division during the remainder 
of the time of service; his service as commander of the .12th Iowa ceas- 
ing June 1st, 1863. 

While in command of the 3rd Brigade, 3rd Division, 15th Array 
Corps, he served in the siege of Yickshurg, his Brigade, after June 
22nd, being stationed along Black river, where very heavy guard and 
patrol duty was kept until July 4th, when he crossed Black river, and 
on the 10th formed his Brigade on the left of the main road, and with- 
in range of Jackson, Miss. 

On the 15th of July Gen. Tuttle reported sick, and Col. Woods was 
assigned to the command of the 3d Division of the 15th Army Corps. 
On the 16th he moved his Division to the right and relieved Gen. Os- 
terhaus from a position on the front. On the 17th the rebels evacu- 
ated Jackson and a few days after the Division returned to Black 
river, when it went into camp July 25th, Col. Woods remaining in 
command of the division until relieved by Gen. Asboth some time in 
October, 1863. 

Col. Woods returned to the command of the 3rd Brigade, and No- 
vember 7th, 1863, was ordered to Memphis, Tenn., and his Brigade as- 
signed to posts along the railroad from La Grange to Corinth, where 
they had frequent skirmishes with the enemy. 

January 29th, 1864, he was ordered with his Brigade to Black river, 
Miss., where they were on duty during Sherman's Meridian Expedi- 
tion. 

May 2nd the 3rd Divisioil having been transferred and been desig- 
nated as the 1st Division of the 16th Corps, was re-organized, the 3rd 
Brigade composed of the 12th and 35th Iowa, 7th Minnesota, and 23rd 
Missouri, commanded by Col. Woods; 1st Division, commanded by 
Gen. Mower, left wing of 16th Army Corps commanded by Gen. A. J. 
Smith. 

During the summer they made two expeditions from Memphis to 
the interior and on July 13th, 14th and 15th, 1864, fought the battle oj 
Tupelo, Col. Woods brigade doing most of the fighting and receiving 
great credit for efficient services. 

Col. Woods commanded his Brigade through Arkansas and Mis- 
souri in what was known as the Price Raid. At St. Louis, Missouri, 
Gen. Mower was transferred to Sherman's army at Atlanta, and Col. 
Woods was assigned to command of Division about October 13th, 1864, 
and commanded the Division from Jefferson City, during the march 
to Kansas City and Harrison ville and returning to Sedalia when Gen. 
McArthur assumed command and Col. Woods returned to command of 
Brigade. 



24 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

He commanded the Brigade again during that march through the 
storms of snow and rain, fording rivers floating with ice, returning to 
.St. Louis, where he arrived Nov. Llth, his Brigade had marched with- 
in thirty days 543 uiilps and within sixty days, 871) miles, and since 
June 16th, 1409 miles. 

At St. Louis Col. Woods was mustered out of service, having 
served more than the whole term of enlistment, and having tilled with 
credit many important positions, always with acceptability and with 
honor. He richly deserves, for his services, the recognition which 
has often been accredited to less merit and more persistent effort for 
self. 

His muster out was deeply regretted by all his old comrades and 
especially by the men whom he had so often led and who had learned 
to appreciate the unassuming and (luiet, but brave and generous Col. 
Woods. In the book entitled, "Iowa Colonels," has the following: 
"Col. Woods has a slender stooping form, brown hair, a light complex- 
ion and mild blue eyes. He is in appearance and in fact the most un- 
assuming of Iowa Colonels. He speaks slowly and kindly, and was ac- 
customed to give commands with great coolness and deliberation and 
was never known, even under the hottest fire, to vary in the least the 
deliberation or the modulation of his orders. He had none of the style 
or austere manners of the regular army officer, and while very familiar 
and easy of approach by his subordinates, yet he was a good disciplin- 
arian, and the men soon learned that he possessed great worth as a 
commanding officer; and while the bravest and willing to lead his reg- 
iment to the severest contest yet he was devoid of all rashness that 
would sacrifice his men without good reason. His services merited 
recognition at Washington which he never received; but with him, 
modesty blocked the wheels of ambition. I doubt not that it would 
be impossible to find any of his superior officers who will say that Col. 
Woods ever sought promotion or recognition at their hands in any way 
but by a faithful and earnest discharge of his duties on whatever com- 
mand he was placed." 

After his muster out he removed from the farm, where he had 
lived when he enlisted, to Maquoketa, where he, in company with 
W. F. McCarrow, purchased the "Maquoketa Excelsior," and Woods 
became the editor of that paper and McCarrow the local editor. 

In the fall of 1867 Woods sold his interest and moved upon his 
farm in Clinton county, Iowa, but in 1868 he returned to Maquoketa 
and McCarrow having failed to make his payments on the paper and 
Woods, having to pay the loss, he took the whole paper and published 
it until May, 1869, when he removed to Montana, Kansas. He bought 
a farm adjoining the town and entered, with all his usual thorough- 
ness, into the business of farming and stock raising. 

In 1871 he was on the Board of Visitors at West Point, appointed 
by U. S. Grant. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



In the fall of 1871 he was one of the three Commissioners, appoint- 
ed by the Secretary of the Interior, to appraise the Cherokee neutral 
lands in the Indian Territory, west of the 96th meridian. 

He was appointed by the president as Receiver of the Humbolt 
Land District, but declined the appointment. The same fall he was 
elected to the Kansas Legislature which convened in January, 1872. 
In March, 1872, he was appointed by the Governor one of the Regents 
of the State University. 

He was a member of the Legislature in 1875, and chairman of the 
committee on Ways and Means. 

He was an earnest Republican in politics and, although known to 
his comrades as a man of few words, he became quite a prominent polit- 
ical speaker, and took a very prominent part in the campaigns of the 
state, including that of 1888. 

During his service he had contracted chronic diarrhoea, from 
which he never recovered, and from which he suffered severely, and 
continually grew worse until September 27th, 1889, when he died at 
his home in Montana, Kansas, of hemorrhage of the bladder and blood 
poisoning. He was buried in Oakwood cemetery, in Parsons, Kansas, 
the Grand Army of the Republic conducting the services at his burial. 

His wife and five children survive him. 



The following letters were received at different times and by dif- 
ferent persons and will, without doubt, be read with pleasure by 
you all, breathing as they do the spirit of love and kindly feeling that 
exists so strongly between old comrades: 

Chicago, May 25th, 1892. 
My Dear Simpson: 

Yours informing me that fifty of the comrades of the regiment 
succeeded in reaching Sioux City, is received. I am glad to know that 
even that number were present, and that you had such an enjoyable 
time together. 

The reports from so many others who were on the road, and the 
complete arrangement for our reception by the good people of Sioux 
City assures us that, but for the floods, the fourth reunion would have 
been a grand success. 

I regret the disappointment which so many of the boys have expe- 
rienced, and realize very keenly how severe these disappointments 
have been to them because I felt them myself and all the more keenly, 
perliaps, because it had been my good fortune to be with the boys in 
all their marclies and engagements from 1861 to 1866, and at all 
former reunions. If my telegrams were received you know of my va- 
rious delays by wrecks and washouts and that 1 Anally reached Ma- 
nilla Junction, only to find further progress utterly impossible. 

You know so well the great pleasure I had anticipated in meeting 
the comrades again that you can in some measure appreciate the feel- 
ing with which 1 was compelled to turn back, knowing that the long 
looked for pleasure of this reunion must be indefinitely postponed. 

I heartily approve of your suggestion to publish proceedings and 



FOURTH REUNION OF THE 




triict ion of all t he raili'oad biidtic.^ m im .w,,ii,,, ..m ,,n,,ii„ ,„j 
l)i'('S(Mici' with Uhmii at our next, iriitiion wlicrt' 1 liopc to inccl overy 
oiu> of those wlio tried to k«'1' there in IS!>2. as well as all other iiieni- 
l)ers of t he I'euiineiil,. 




mem most iiearriiv, ref^reMiiif^ iiiai i am imanie, aiicr earnest enori, 
l)y lett,ers to ni(>inl>eis of his I'aniily and ot hers, 'o {j:ive a nioi'e com- 
plete reportot' the facts concern ini-- the deal h of this worthy soldier 
who was left for dead on tiie Held of Tupelo, but survived his wounds 
and a lon^f im|)risonment at Andersonville, to die under tlu> folds (tf 
the tlag he so loyally defended and within a (piiet home ])rovi(le(l for 
the care of worthv soldiers. 




W. Reed. 



House of Representatives U. S.. / 
Wasiiinoton, May s. 1S5)2. \ 
Col. Jiinies E. Sh)ipso)i, Norfolk, Xehrdskd. 

My Deak Comuadk: Your kind letter of tlie l.'Uh of March, ask- 
in^f me if 1 could not be at onr reunion on the ISth and l!»th to write 
something' for the old comrades of the 12th. was received. I have 
been too busy to yriv(> this reijuest earlier attention. In letters to 
Comrades I>arr and Reed 1 have said some thinjis which they may feel 
like readin<i- to the boys. 



TWELFTPT IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



Whatciin I say to them tlifou":!! youy Don't tlicy all kiir)w how I 
fool, atui how iiit(Misoly sorry 1 am tliat. I can tiot ho wit,h thorn? 'I'o 
yo to Sioux City and roturri would coiisumo moro than a wook, and wo 
are ri^-ht in tho midst of tho pi'oparation of our appropriation i)ilis, a 
work lliat I can notdosorl, for. as you know. 1 am tho sonioi' of the 
minority, therefore aduty rests with me lliat 1 catuiot siiirk. 1 some- 
times feel as thoui"h I would hrc^ak and run. anyhow, to f^'ot out< there 
with you. 

Four yoai-s a|,'o I was kept away from tho same cause, and 1 am^fot- 
ting hoart-huriiiiy to see tho old faces. Do you know, Mr. Simpson, 
that the older wo j^i'ow tho more we are t,o each oth(>r. Tlu' rising' 
{j:oiieration can only catch a faint impression of the j^-roat period of 
'(il-T); they do not. they can not, however j^Hjod of heart and keen of 
principles, realize and ai)preciato wiiat the I2tli Iowa and tiioir com- 
rades of the (Jrand Army of tho llopublic W(nit tiirou^fli. This we 
must have i)al-ienco with. Sometimes thin<>s are said and done to- 
wards th(\ old soldier that "hurt me to the (|uick.'" and stir up an^er 
tiiat 1 would wish to have sloop: things more than cruel are said and 
done, hut 1 thank my (Jod that all tills comes from hut a very few. 
The gvani body of the American peoi)le, old and yoiuijf, appreciate tho 
mit>lity deeds of the soldiers of the Union, sympathizer witii them, and 
are ready by every kindness to do them jusiico. Tlie -.tatute hooks of 
oui' counl,ry attest tlie appreciation ami {^'onerosity of the Nation. 
L(!t us not ho uinnindful of t.hes{> thiti^is. Somotimc^s, jx^rhaps, w(; ask 
Too much, and i^xhihit too much our self-ai)i)reciation of wliat we did. 
Tho little l)utl;on on tho lapels of our coats is a modest thinji:, hut, it 
tolls of a mit,'hty hisioi'y; let us imit.ato its modesty. Wo will thus 
impress ourselves and our deeds upon tho memories of the people. 

Tell tho boys from mo that their countrv is u(tt unmindful of their 
acrifices and their sulTeriuf^s, .•ind that tlu' jj^roat act of .luiu- 27, 1890, 
which carried so many blossin^^s into so many homes will not be the 
last one, but that as our needs increase and our woMknossos develop, 
tho country, over on tlie alert, will enlarfj:o its heart for the ^ood of us 
all, and those in whom wo are interost(!d moro than in ourselves. 

I wish that I could be with you all for the handshake, the laugh, 
the story and tho tearful eye. There is no music to mo sweeter than 
tho broken voice of alToction as comiade meets comrade. I can look 
down yet iiiion tho 12th Iowa, into their dear faces as 1 spoke to them 
last, and see l he eyes all moist with alTect ionate r(M'ollections, eyes 
that scarcely llinchod when death was marshaling in front of them. I 
wish I could see them again. 1 hope to— most of you, although death's 
cruel sickel is moving witii horrid rapidity among our ranks, and re- 
ducing the numl)ers that attend our reunions. 

In conclusion, comrade, let me wisii for you all a joyous time at 
the reunion. Throw care to the winds, and give yourselves up to a 
ha|)py period. You all deserve it. To each and all, with their rela- 
tives, their wives and children, I send the alToctionate greetings of a 
sincere friend and comrade. Very kindly yours, 

D. li. IIkndbuson. 

Los Angeles, Cal., April 21, 1892. 
Majm' J. E. Slmpsnv, Secretary of Executive Committee ISth Regiment lotva 
Veteran Volunteers, Norfolk, Nebraska. 
Deau Sir: Received yours of March 13th, with your kind invita- 
tion to attend reunion of the glorious old 12tli Iowa. I would so glad- 
ly be with you, my dear comrades, but it is imiKissible this time and 
I must therefore content myself in living over in memory the meeting 
at Manchester in 1884, which 1 so much enjoyed with you. Hoping 



28 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

that yet many of the old boys may answer roll call on May 18, 1892, 
and that you may have a good and happy reunion, I remain with kind 
greetings and good wishes to you dear ones all, 

AtTectionately, your old Major, 

S. D. BUODTBECK. 

Lansing, Allamakee Co., Iowa, May 17, 1892. 
Dear Friend and Comrade Simpson: 

It is now more than thirty years since you and I met every morn- 
ing at orderly's call, and yet liovv vivid seem the memories of those 
times. How mucli pleasure it would give me to meet you and our old 
comrades once more. 1 defered writing to you until the last moment, 
thinking I might be able to come, but circumstances beyond my con- 
trol have denied me that pleasure. Not even the tempting olTer of 
certificate of disability from .Surgeons Finley and Underwood have 
dispensed the mundane difliculties in tlie way. 

1 received the returned letters of Co. "B" but have been unable to 
relocate them. Comrade Isted left Milwaukee some time ago and 
went to Portage, Wis., and I have been informed that since he has 
moved west. Comrade Sanrice 1 hear is at lloseville. in this county. 
Comrades J. H. Huestis and Chas. Ogan have joined the great major- 
ity. Comrade John Dowling informed me tliat he had intended com- 
ing, but the loss of his home by tire prevented. Of the ninety-seven 
men who left Lansing in 18tJl, but Knud Iverson and myself are still 
left in the city. 

And now dear comrade although the fates prevent my bodily pres- 
ence, I shall be with you in spirit, and with my best wishes for the 
happiness of yourself and the dear comrades of the old 12th, 1 am 
Yours in fraternity, charity and loyaltv, 

John D. Cole. 

Omaha, May 17, 1892. 
To Maj. D. W. Eccd, President, or J. E. Simpson, Secretanj, 12th loioa 
Tteunion: 
Comrades: Mrs. Hobbs and I are here enroute for Sioux City. 
The railroad agent here discourages our going on, as the floods are en- 
dangering the possibility of ever getting tlirough. You all know the 
disappointment this brings us, the long waited for reunion. If this is 
in any way general I trust you will arrange for a reunion in the near 
future. I have prepared a paper on Hospital Department, bringing it 
with me, but now am unable to get it to you. Will have it before you 
on next occasion of our coming together, which, may God grant. Be 
assured, dear brothers, of my endearing love for all that ever marched 
and fought as 12th lowans, and every dear boy that enrolled at Camp 
Union. Yours atfectionatelv, 

J. C. H. Hobbs, 
Mrs. C. E. Hobbs. 
1441 G Street, Lincoln, Nebraska. 

Lincoln, Neb., May 1(). 1892. 
Gen'l J. H. Stibhs, Sioux City, loim: 

My Dear Gen'l: Nothing would please me better than to meet 
you and the boys of the gallant 12tli Iowa, but my office duties this 
week are such it is out of tlie question to leave. God bless you all. 

Very truly, II. C. McArthur., 
TnoTEN, lowA. May 17, 1892.' 
/. E. Sim2)son, Acting Sec";/ of the Societtf, 12th Iowa, Sioux City, Iowa: 

Dear Comrade: It is witli the deepest regret that tliis will have 



TWELFTH IOWA V. Y. INFANTRY. 29 

to substitute my personal attendance at this itli reunion of the 12th 
Iowa. As nothing- but a serious sicl^ness in the family could have 
kept me at home, I am sorry to inform you that my wife being now in 
a very critical condition, suffering from heart disease, thus mailing it 
an impossibility for me to be with you. But, dear friends, I am with 
you in my mind if not in person, and hoping you will have an exceed- 
ingly good time at your meeting 1 will close with my best respects to 
all the "boys." Truly yours, 

6. P. RoCKWOIiD, 

Late Member of Co. "G," 12th Iowa. 

Parsons, Kansas, May 14, 1892. 
Mr. J. E. Simpson., Norfolk, Neb.: 

Dkar Sir: Your letter cotaining two badges and an invitation to 
attend the reunion of the 12th Iowa Infantry at Sioux City, was re- 
ceived this morning. Having previously received two printed invita- 
tions my conscience smote me when I remembered that in the rush of 
daily duties I had failed to acknowledge their receipt. I at-sure you it 
was not indifference that caused the neglect. Great pleasure it would 
give my mother, who is yet with us but no longer enjoys good health, 
my brother, and each of my three sisters, as well as myself, to be pres- 
ent with you and look into the eyes and clasp the hands of those noble 
men who held such a warm place in the heart of our beloved husband 
and father. 

My mother says that she well remembers when the "boys" marched 
up to the quarters at Benton Barracks and received their new guns, 
what a tine regiment they were, and not long after when my father 
came home wounded, how often he would mourn for his "noble boys" 
In rebel prisons. 

Though none of us can be with you in person we will all be there 
in heart and spirit. The badges you so kindly sent will be worn by m.v 
mother and myself during the time of the reunion, in honor of the 
regiment, and I will also make mine the subject of an object lesson to 
the young children in my school room at that time and endeavor to 
instill in their youthful minds a genuine love for our country and a 
feeling of respect, honor and reverence for the gallant soldiers who so 
bravely defended and preserved the nation. 

My mother, brother and sisters unite with me in wishing for the 
surviving comrades of the noble 12th Iowa Infantry a pleasant, joyful 
reunion and many peaceful hanpy years at the sunset of life. 

Yery respectfully, Carrik Woods. 

Memphis, Tenn., May 10, 1892. 
Captain J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Nebraska: 

My Dear Sir: The circular sent out by you inviting me to the 
fourth quadrennial reunion of the 12th Regiment of Iowa Infantry 
volunteers is received. 

It is a matter of profound regret to me that I am unable to attend 
that reunion in consequence of the fact that I am now engaged in the 
trial of appeal cases in the Supreme Court of the State at Jackson, 
Tennessee, where I will be more or less engaged during the remainder 
of this month. 

The absence of so many comrades who have crossed over the river 
vFould make the occasion one of sadness rather than pleasure to me. 
Among those who have left us to return no more is my brother, Col. 
S. R. Edgington, who presided at the last reunion. 

I want, if possible, to meet the survivors of the "old 12th" once 
more and renew the friendships of the past. 



30 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



From the organization of the 12th until the battle of Shiloh, I was 
the file leader of the regiment. The regiment dressed on my button 
and it took its step from me. My stop is just as elastic now as it was 
at Camp Benton, Fort Henry, Donclson and Sliiloli. 

My heart goes out to tlie survivors of the "old 12th" and 1 hope 
they may have a good time at the reunion at Sioux City, Iowa, on May 
18th and 19th. 

Permit me through you. to express to the survivors of the 12th my 
high appreciation of them individually and collectively. 

Your old comrade, T. B. Edoington. 

Washington, I). C, April 19, 1892. 
/. E. Simpmn^ Esq., Norfolk, Nebraska: 

Dear Comuadk: Some time since I received from you an invita- 
tion to the Ith (luadrennial reunion of tl\e 12th Iowa Infantry, to be 
held at Sioux City, Iowa, May 18 and 19, 1892. 

I very much regret that it will be impossible for me to he present 
with the boys on tluit occasion. I expect to go to Iowa next fall, 
whicli renders my going this spring out of the question. I liope you 
will have a pleasant time and I further hope to meet some of the 12th 
Iowa boys at the gathering of the G. A. R. hosts which will assemble 
in this city this summer. 

My address is 1921 ()th Street, Northwest, Washington, D. C, and 
the latch string is always outside. 

Be pleased to present my warmest regards to all who may be pres- 
ent. Fraternally yours, 

H. J. Playter, 
Capt. Co. "H" 12th Iowa Infantry. 

Kansas City, Mo., May 0, 1892. 
/. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Nebraska: 

Dkar Ccjmrade: Your circular calling on the boys of the glorious 
old 12th Iowa Infantry, to meet in Sioux City, Iowa, May 18 and 19, to 
hand. I would have replied sooner but was trying to arrange so that 
I could tell you I would be there, but I find it will be impossible. 
Nothing In this world would give me more pleasure than to meet once 
more with those that are left of our regiment, for I have more than a 
brotherly love for each and every one of our regiment, be they dead or 
alive. Give my kindest regards to all the boys; tell them my heart is 
with them if I am not there in person. My health is poor. Shall be 
pleased to hear from you or any of the boys at any time. Should any 
of you ever come to this city don't fail to call and see me. 
Your old comrade and friend, 

N. E. Duncan. 

Davenport, Iowa, March 20, 1892. 
./. E. Simiison: 

Dear Comrade: Yours of recent date containing notice of the 
death of Com. Phillips, received. I am grieved to hear of his death. 
He was a good soldier and a good man. I return you the card in order 
that it may V)e reported at the reunion, and liope some one else of "K'' 
Co. can be found to till the place assigned to me, which I was not 
aware of till the receii)t of your circular of a few weeks ago. I am so 
remote from all members of the company and regiment that I hear 
nothing of what has happened to any of them. Again, although I 
regret to say it, I do not expect to be able to attend the reunion. 1 
have a matter coming before our state encampmen t G. A. R. which 
meets only a few days before that compels me to atte nd that meeting 
and it will be absolutely impossible for me to spend the time for both, 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 31 

meetings at one time, which would have to be the case. I was greatly 
In hopes of attending this reunion and having another good visit with 
"the boys," and regret exceedingly that I cannot. Kindly remember 
me to them, and express my hope that all may live to see several more 
reunions of the regiment. Sincerely yours, 

J. B. Morgan. 

Berrien Springs, Mich., May 12, 1892. 
J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Nebraska: 

Dear Comrade AND Comrades: My intentions have been to be 
present with you the 18th and 19th, hence seeking to have an old fash- 
ioned camp visit together once more as the old vets love each other, 
but I write this note to you to let you know I cannot be present with 
you this reunion, but will try and be present the next reunion of our 
old regiment. Kindly remember me to all of our ''boys" and your 
family. I am your comrade, 

N. J. Davis. 

Spring Valley, Minn., May 1.3, 1892. 
Greetings to the Comrades of the 12th Iowa Vet. Vol.: 

I had hoped to have been one of the number to attend the 4th 
quadrennial reunion at Sioux City, it being the flrst time I have had 
the pleasure of knowing the date, but it is impossible, as our W. R. C. 
convention meets in our city about the same time and cannot leave, 
but feel like saying, "God bless the comrades that are left of the 12th 
Iowa." There is nothing sends the blood coursing through my veins 
equal to the name of that regiment, perhaps owing some to the ac- 
quaintances 1 formed among Lliem while on my visit in the south, but 
more particularly tlie many acts of kindness shown me after the death 
of my husband, A. A. Burdick, who fell in defence of his country. 

Accept the best wishes of one who is interested in all comrades 
that are left and I trust this reunion will be one of the bright spots in 
your life for "time and tide" waiteth for no man. 
Respectfully in F. C. & L., 

Mrs. Jennie Sturdivant, 
President Burdick W. R. C. No. 38, Auxiliary to Burdick Post No. 3, 

Spring Valley, Minn. 

St. John's Rectory, Home-de-Grace, Md., [ 
March 21st. 1892. \ 

My Dear Doctor: Your letter of the ISth inst. came this morn- 
ing. Your worthy self and the 12th I. V. V. Inft. awake the slumber- 
ing thoughts of times, deeds and scenes, which seem to be vanishing 
from material sight and hearing in the past, yet living and bright in 
thoughts and sight, in memory's palace halls. Your committee's cir- 
culars for the "fourth quadrennial reunion" is admirable. To meet 
the comrade patriots once more would be a joy and delight. Yet there 
will be sad thoughts awakened by so many vacancies in the regiment 
caused by death. But our captain is the Prince of life. "Dust thou 
art, to dust returneth," was not spoken of the soul. God's blessings 
on the veterans of the 12th Iowa Infantry. 

For me to be at Sioux City, May 18 and 19, will be Impossible. I 
heartily thank you for your letter and circular. Remember me kindly 
to the veterans and to your own family. We march under one cap- 
tain, a few more suns, a few more bivouacs, then the reunion on the 
"further shore." Yours for God and country, 

F. Humphrey. 



32 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

Under severe regime my health in this climate has improved. 

St. Paul, Minn., May 14, 1892. 
Dear Major Reed: 

I will be in Chicago on the 18th or 19th. You doubtless will be 
gone to the 12th Reg. Reunion. I am sorry not to have time to go 
too. Please give a cordial greeting to the members forme. I cherisli 
altogether pleasant memories of my association with the veterans of 
the regiment and shall always esteem it an honf)r to have commanded 
so soldierly a body of men. Perhaps I will tlnd time to write a brief 
note of regret and greeting to you at Sioux City. 

Yours truly, W. R. Marshall. 

St. Paul, Minn., May 20, 1892. 
Judge J. IV. Weaver., Sioux City, Iowa: 

My Dear Sir: Major Van Duzee and myself started for Sioux City 
last Tuesday night: we got as far as Heron Lake, when our train was 
turned around and we returned to St. Paul. We were very much dis- 
appointed that we could not meet the "boys"; however, from all re- 
ports that 1 hear from Sioux City, 1 fear that our reunion was close on 
to a failure. I hope, however, that you have only adjourned it for one 
year. Have the kindness to write me and tell me all alx>ut what you 
did and when the adjournment was to. Yours respectfully, 

AL. J. RODGBRS. 

Des Moines, Iowa, April 26, 1892. 
Mr. J. E. Simpson, Secretaey 12th loxm. Regimental Association, Norfolk, 
Nebraska: 
Dear Comrade: I very much regret being compelled to write you 
that it will be an impossibility for me to be present at the regimental 
reunion to be held at Sioux City next month. Therefore, I write you 
while there is still time for some other member of Co. A to be placed 
on the program to report for that company, and would suggest .Capt. 
A. E. Webb, or Lt. I). V. Ellsworth, both of Eldora, Iowa, tor that- 
duty. 

Trusting that you will have an interesting and joyful reunion, and 
hoi)ing that you are and yours are well and happy, I am as ever 

Always yours, R. S. Clarkson. 

Washington, D. C, May 5, 1892. 
D. W. Reed, President of the 12th lovxi Association: 

My Dear Major: I regret very much my inability to be with you 
on the occasion of our fourth reunion and can only express to you, and 
through you to my comrades of the dear old 12th, my great disappoint- 
ment in not being able to be present and to participate in the warm 
greetings each will receive from every comrade, to join in and add my 
little mite of pleasure to tliat of those whose love for each other is 
welded together with a tire more fervent, a band more Hrm, than that of 
almost any other, not excepting tlie ties of kindred. We learned to 
bear with each other and sink our little differences, social and polit 
ical, when standing in solid phalanx when the bullets of the enemy 
swept down to death our brother or our mess-mate: when on the long 
weary march; many times when a piece of fat hog and an army crack- 
er was the sweetest morsel we had ever eaten. These bands are 
stronger and more enduring than those iron ones with whicli Wertz 
bound four of us together for eight days and nights, wlien in prison at 
Tuscaloosa, Ala., for displaying the llaj: for which we fought. I will 
refrain from alluding further to the past, with which y(»u are all so 
familiar, and confine my thoughts to the presen',, hoping that you all 



n I HHimn 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 3.3 

enjoy good health and enough of the blessings of this life to be happy. 
But, dear comrades, I am sensible to the fact that many of you are 
suffering from the effects of your exposure in camp life'and from the 
ravages of disease contracted during the years you gave to your coun- 
try's cause. I am happy to say, beloved comrades, that I have reason- 
ably good health and must certainly retain some of my youthful ap- 
pearance as many question my claim to having been in the army, of 
which fact proof is unnecessary to you. I am again in the service of 
Uncle Sam, at a fair salary, and am not anxious for a discharge. Hop- 
ing to meet many of you here at the National Encampment of the 
(t. a. R. and that you will have a most glorious and happy time at 
this reunion, I am. Yours devotedly, 

S. R. BUKCH. 



The following telegrams whicii were received and read at the re- 
union will serve to show how comrades were trying to get to Sioux 
City: 

Fort Dodge, Ia., May 18, 1892. 
To J. N. Weaver: 

This wing of the 12' h Iowa has been temporarily repulsed. Re- 
pulse may become a rout. Superintendent says does not think we can 
get through; track reported washed out in several places between here 
and Sioux City. There is not one in party who feels like praying. 
A, Wilson and wife. Kemp, C. Moine and wife, Stuart, Lattimer, 
Grannis. Ballinger, Hazelette; D, Ayers; E, Schack, Church; T, Dun- 
ham, Tom and Wayne, Nelson, Cooldridge, McGowan, Preston; H, Fis- 
chel, Horner; I, McDermott, and Nagle. Answer here. 

C. E. Merriam. 

Heron Lake, Minn, May 18, 1892. 
To Judge J. N. Weaver: 

We are storm bound here. Can't you send us an ox team. 

Van Duzee and Rodgers. 

Sibley, Ia., May 18, 1892. 
2'o Mr. Preddent and Comrades: 

Can not advance; must retreat. Sorry to say a 12th Iowa man 
ever retreats but no other show. Kind regards to all. 

Ed H. Bailey, 
And Scott, Barr, Hartwell, Buttolph, Lewis, Mareph. 

Sheldon, Ia., May 18, 1892. 
To J. E. Simpson: 

Dr. Barr six others here; since last night dozen more at Worthing- 
ton and Sibley. Any boys there? E. R. Soper. 

RiDGEWAY, Ia., May 18, 1892. 
To Major D. W. Beed: 

Comrades, greeting to you all. Co. G most of all. 

Anton E. Anderson, 
D. O. Aker. 

Perry, Ia., May 18, 1892. 
To Judge J. N. Weaver: 

Delayed by a wreck. Will be there sometime today. 

J. H. Stibbs. 



34 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

Lemars, Ia., May 18, 1892. 
To Color Bearer G ranis, Veteran: 

Trains not running; cannot got down; mu^t see the boys. Can't 
reunion be postponedV H. C. Curtis. 

Sioux Falls, S. D., Mav 19, 1892. 
To 12th Rey't Reunion, ^2 5th St.: 

Will come tomorrow if you are in session. Answer soon. 

J. B. Hazelet. 

Manilla, Ia., May 19, 1892. 
To John A. Weaver: 

VViic ine here if T sh:tll make furtlier effort to reach you. 

D. W. Reed. 

Rock Valley, Ia., May 19. 1892. 
To HeaiViuarters 121h Iowa Ecc/t: 

Dear Comrades: Owing to the high waters am unable to reach 
you. Respects to y(tu and yours in F. C. L. T. 

P. R. Ketchum. 

Sterling. Neb.. May 18, 1892. 
D) J. N. Weaver: 

Cannot get there in time on account of washouts. 

Peter Kearns. 

Lemars. Ioava, Mav 20, 1892. 
To J. N. Weaver: 

Sick in bed since Tuesday or would have walked down: must come 
by first tiain. Have all brave boys go to the Garretson till I can come 
at my expense. Tell Grannis and Reed tf) keep Co. C. till tomorrow. 
Put me down for twenty-tlve dollai's to Sioux City sufferer's fund. 

H. C. Curtis. 

Denver. Col., Mav IT, 1892. 
To Maj. D. W. Reed: 

Greeting to all; I :im with you in spirit, (rod bless you and yours. 
Yours under llie tiag, 

Elizabeth A. Sokin. 



LETTERS FROM COMPANY •D." 
The following is an abstract of the letters received from comrades 
of Co. D, in response to letters of Capt. E. B. Soper, urging their at- 
tendance at the Sioux City reunion: 

Capt. Iliel Hale, deputy warden of U. S. penitentiary at Yuma, 
Arizona, said: "I very much i-egret that I cannot be at the reunion. 
I liave been looking forward to this grand rally of the survivors of Co. 
D and the li:th Iowa with great anxiety, and thought all along that 1 
would be there but tlnl it imiiossible tf) get away from my duties. U, 
is impossible for me to tell you how great to me the disapi)ointment is 
and so will not attempt it. Remember me kindly to them all. May 
the reunion be a great success and may the blessings of the Great 
Commander rest upon all the survivors and at last when their earthly 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 35 

campaign is ended, may they one and all hear His command to enter 
into the kingdom prepared for them, is the prayer of 

Your friend and comrade, Hikl Hale. 

The Cedar Rapids contingent wrote from Sibley the 19th, as fol- 
lows: "We left Cedar Rapids at 12:30 the 17th and ran to Iowa Falls 

K, then trouble began. Rain and wind laid us out at nearly every 
station, but arrived at Sibley 5:30 p. m., the 18th, and found trains on 
the C. St. P. M. & O. abandoned, and no prospects of an advance 
movement but very good prospects of our retreat being cut off. Being 
members of a regiment that never retreated we hate to set an exam- 
ple but must. All of us so wanted to see old Co. D comrades but can't 
this time. Words will not express our regrets."' 

Homer C. Morehead, 
Edwin H. Bailey, 
Chas. W. Clark, 
Jo N W. Roavan, 
Joseph (). Sartwell, 

EdW^N a . BUTTOLPH, 

Thomas Bakr, 
Thomas J. Lewis, 
Joseph Scott. 

Lieut, and Adjutant Sylvester R. Burch writes from Washington, 
D. C: "The program of the 12th Iowa reunion with your note thereon 
was forwarded to me by my wife. She still remains in Olathe, Kan. 

1 am again in the employ of "Uncle Sam." After I had completed my 
supervisor's work of the eleventh census I was ordered here and re- 
mained in that work uni il the first of last September, when I resigned 
and was appointed an auditing clerk in the department of agriculture 
division of accounts which I like very much. The salary is sufficient 
to make a good living. There are only three in my family; my daugh- 
ters are both married, one living in Olathe and the other at Lake 
Charles, La. I am now 50 years old and grandfather, but my age is 
more frequently placed at 4U than 50 and my health is quite good. I 
can only get 30 day leave of absence in eacli year and am compelled to 
use that attending to some business at my old home and will have to 
forego the pleasure of visiting my old comrades, every one of whom I 
love." 

Wm. Baumgardner writes: "I still stop at Scranton, Iowa, and if 
I am alive and well you will see me at the reunion at Sioux City. -I 
hope to see all the old comrades once more for soon our days are 
short." 

Edwin H. Bailey writes: "If nothing happens more than I now 
know of I shall be with you at the reunion at Sioux City, May LStli 
and 19th." 

Henry W. Bailey writes: "I will be at Sioux City on time." 

Dennis Conley writes: "Yours of the 17th at hand and in reply to 
your kind invitation and offer I will have to say, nay. I find it will be 
impossible ror me to come as I liave employment and can't leave: must 



•{(i FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

attend to what I am doing and take the best care I can as I am placed 
at a disadvant ay:c ever since that "Tupelo affair." The older I {jet the 
more I worry over my loss— -nt// (jrcat /o.s.s. I am the only one tliat feels 
it sorely. I can see and I'eiU the dilTerence ])ctwcen the day 1 enlisted 
and the day I was discliaryed if nobody else can. A^ain tlianl<ing you 
for youi' kind otVer 1 am as lieretofore, Your comrade, 

Dennis Conley. 

James L. Cowell writes: "I am in receipt of your rc(iuest to attend 
the reunion at Sioux City for whicli 1 am iliankful l)ut am sorry to say 
that it is impossible. My finances are in such sliai)e that it would not 
lie good policy for me to leave at this time and my health is such tliat 
I don't think 1 could stand the journey. I would lilie very much to 
see the old boys once more but fear that I will not unless I get better. 
I hope to come to Iowa during the fair at Chicago and will if my health 
permits. I send my love to all the comrades and hope they will have 
a good time. While I can't be with you in person 1 will in heart. I 
am now living in tlie city of Walla Walla', and all communications for 
me should be sent to this place." 

Robert C. Cowell writes: "Yours of the ir)th at hand. Will say in 
reply that I shall try to come. I want to see the boys once more." 

Ferdinand Dubois writes: "I received your letter today and was 
pleased to liear from you. I am going to try hard to be at the reunion 
and answer to roll call with the balance of Co. I). I hope to see all the 
boys there. I failed to be at the iast reunion but liope not to miss 
this one." 

Mrs. Harmon (Irass writes: "Yours of the ir)th at hand and in re- 
ply will say tliat 1 guess that Mr. Grass will l)e at the reunion. He 
wanted me to tell you tliat he did not think he could come this time, 
but I told him that I would tell you that he was coming and I think 
when the time comes he will go. I liope that you will all have a grand 
time for I think you all deserve it. I had hoped tiiat we might both 
go this time, as doubtless many will be there I used to know, whom it 
will V)e my last and only chance to see but if lioth cannot leave I will 
be tlie one to stay. Hoping again that you may liave a happy reun- 
ion, I am, Respectfully yours, 

Mrs. Harmon Guass. 

Irdill W. Holler writes from California: "I received your letter 
some time ago Init having been very l)usy neglected answering. It is 
impossible for me to come and join you at Sioux City for financial rea- 
sons. I would like to come but tliere is no possibU^ show. Give my re- 
gards to tlie boys." 

John Luther writes: "Please excuse my tardiness in not writing 
sooner. The reunion of the 12th Iowa will be a rare treat for the old 
boys. If possible I will be with you. I am coming— coming— coming. 
Hip— hip— now every Ijody.'' 

William L. Lee writes: "Your favor of recent date came duly to 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



hand. I fully appreciate 3 cur kindness but I cannot tjive you a posi- 
tive answer concerning my presence at tlie I'euiiion at present but will 
say, however, that I will surely be present if it is possible to leave at 
that time. The spring and summer months are the busy season with 
mining people. I have several new enterprises on hand and cannot 
tell just how my absence at that time might effect myself and those 
interested with me l)ut will write again as soon as I can answer defi- 
nitely. I have been laid up with la grippe and rlieumatism since the 
middle of February and have not yet fully recovered, perhaps on ac- 
count of living so much on the mountains at an altitude of 8,000 feet." 
Later he writes: "'After the receipt of your last letter I began imme- 
diately to prepare to attend the reunion (jf the old 12th Iowa at Sioux 
City, but having gone up into the mountains too soon after leaving the 
hospital my rheumatism came back on me and I am again under the 
doctor's care at Helena. I fully appreciate your efforts to get the boys 
together and would like the best in the world to meet you all once 
more but it will be impossible to do so at this time." 

James H. Little, formerly Co. K Is-t Iowa, and afterwards Co. D 
and Co. K 12th Iowa, writes: "1 am more than happy to hear from you 
and would love to be where I could see you all. You are the first com- 
rade I have received a scratch of a pen from since the close of the war. 
I often think of .\ou all and wonder if I can ever see any of my old 
command again. I have forgotten none of you and never will. I 
would come to the reunion if I was able, but am not. I want to end 
my days among them. I have no family; they are all dead. But when 
you meet a Co. I) or K man tell them old Jim Luther is still on deck. 
My address is Mt. Carmel, Ills. Please put this in your paper or some 
paper where the 12th Iowa will see it." 

David W. Minor writes: "I received your notice of the 4th reunion 
of the 12th Iowa and in reply would say that I have long wished for 
the pleasure of being at one of them and of once more seeing and greet- 
ing my brave and gallant comrades. But I am sorry to say that I can- 
not possibly avail myself of the opportunity afforded by the coming 
reunion. It would give me much pleasure to meet my old comrades 
and take them by the hand. I have no doubt they have changed in 
outward appearance so that I should fail to recognize many of them 
as they doubtless would me. I am bearing some of the marks of time 
but my spirit is still young. I am unchanged, '--—:- ^,, in the spirit 
of respect and brotherly love for all comrades of the 12th, and espec- 
ially Co. I), from Capt. Jack down to Buttolph at the switch end of the 
company. I cherish many pleasant memories of the companionships 
of the service and should greatly enjoy talking over old times and re- 
newing old friendships, but as I cannot be with you please give my 
love and hearty greetings to everyone. May they all prosper and en- 
joy life and live to enjoy yet many more reunions and may God be with 
you all till we meet again." 

Nathan G. Price, on April 28th, wrote: ''I will be with you at 



38 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

Sioux City. Have no time to write now. Sixteeii hours per day. at 
hard work. Talce the will for the deed." But on May 15th: "It is with 
much disappointment and regret that I am compelled to ask you and 
the boys to accept this sheet as a substitute for myself at your reunion. 
I have worked hard to be able to be with you and one week ago I was 
sure of being one of you. But nature has interfered with storms and 
floods and wrecked my fields and plans and rendered it entirely impos- 
sible for me to leave. * * * Now Capt. and boys alll There are 
none of you who want me at the reunion any worse than I want to be 
there. None of you have worked harder to be there than I have. No 
one is to blame. I hope and trust that I may be the only one absent. 
And, bad as I feel about it, I hope each and all of you feel worse than I 
do. Indeed it would be a satisfaction for me to know that there was 
not a dry eye over my absence. But if theie are even two wet ejes, 
dry them, wipe them quick and enjoy the pleasure of being in thecorn- 
pany of those who are not absent. Let each give the other a kindly 
glance, a shake and a greeting for me and after the reunion when all 
have gone home I want you each and all to write to me. If I can't see 
you I would like to hear from you and not of you. I fear this will be 
our last chance of seeing each other. I hope not. I am so greatly dis- 
appointed this time that I have no expectation of ever being with you, 
but if I do remember that as long as I live I am 

N. G. Price, of Co. D." 

J. Y. Geo. Price writes: "If the Lord is willing and nothing hap- 
pens my wife and I will meet you at Sioux City in May." 

Henry W. Ross writes: "I will be at Sioux City May 17, 1892, no 
preventing providence. Look for me."' 

Frank Reuchin, who was so fearfully and cruelly shot at Shiloh 
after the surrender by a drunken rebel, writes: "I have received your 
kind letter and read the proposition you offer. My tlianks for your 
kindness. It makes my heart beat faster wiien I hear or read that you 
boys think so much of me and would like U) see me. I would like to 
see them all as I have not seen any of tbem for twenty years. It is 
not so much a matter of money with me, as money is not so close, but 
Ijusiness matters: and besides I am not very well at present and could 
hardly stand the trip. I think I will take a trip to Iowa this fall and 
try to see some of the boys. Now when you se*^ the boys tell them my 
heart and hand is with them always and that I hold them in love and 
friendship ever. If it was in my power to help any one of them in 
distress I w<juld do it with all my heart. I am proud that I have de- 
fended the American flag — the stars and stripes and I am willing to 
lay my life down for our country— my adopted country. I am proud 
to be a citizen of the United States, the best country in the world and 
I am not sorry that I got crippled defending the flag. I tried to do my 
duty as a soldier and as a citizen and I have no doubt all of the boys 
of the 12th have done tke same. I hope .vou will all enjoy yourselves 
and while having a good time think of me a little." 



TWELFTH IOWA V. Y. INFANTRY. 39 

Mrs. Chas. Ranson, whose true name was Nicholas Clemans and 
who deserted from Co. D. and who for some time resided at Smith Cen- 
ter, Kan., that her husband died in the insane hospital at Topeka, 
Kan., Oct. 7, 1887, of appoplexy of the brain and asking for assistance 
in securing a pension. 

Daniel Livets writes: "Dear Comrade: I got 3'our invitation to the 
reunion and would like to come and see you all once more, but I can't, 
for my health will not permit. Give my love to all the boys and tell 
them that I should like to be with them and hope they may have a 
good time." 

Joseph Wagner, whose P. O. address is Borne City, Ind., among 
other things, writes: "When I left the 12ih Iowa Inft. at St. Louis 
I went direct to Columbus, Ohio, and there enlisted in in Co. F, 11th 
Ohio Cav., and went directly back to St. Louis and after a few daj^s at 
Benton Barracks was sent up the Missouri river by steamer to Fort 
Leavenworth and from there sent across the plains to New Mexico. 
Served three years and thirty-one days in the territories mostly, and 
was mustered out at Ft. Larimie, July 22d, 1866. In 1868 was married 
to a farmer's daughter in ^lorrow county, Ohio, and have four chil- 
dren, one son and three daughters. Have drifted around considerably 
since the war. Tried it awhile in Mo.; got sick of the country and 
went north of Cedar Rapids four miles and tried farming for six years; 
made my fortune and then came here: bought property and expect to 
end my days here. This is a great summer resort on banks of Silver 
Lake. Would like awful well to be at the reunion at Sioux City and 
renew acquaintances with comrades of the 12th. Presume that Stibbs 
is not very anxious to see me, but I don't hold any grudge. That lit- 
tle ditHculty is forgotten years ago." 

John Watrobeck, Cotterville, Mo., writes: "Comrade Soper: I have 
received j^our welcome letter. You have made great pleasure to me to 
hear from old comrades once more. Thank God that some of our boys 
are still living. I would like to be with you in your encampment but 
I am sick and worn out. I will be 70 years old on May 10, 1892, and 
could not stand the trip. I would like to see j'ou. Hope you will en- 
joy yourselves and think of me. I will remember you all. You ask of 
my brother, Enos Watrobeck. He died in Tenn. in 1863 and my 
brother George the same year in Virginia. My two brothers died for 
the Union." 

B. P. Zuver and E. A. Buttolph wrote numerous letters and did 
everything in their power to get the boys out. 



A SHORT HISTORY OF CO. D's LITTLE CANNON, BY SOME 
OF THE FELLOWS WHO WERE THERE. 

During the late unpleasantness while our regiment was stationed 
at Selma, Alabama, some of Co. "K" boys while prowling around an 



40 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

old foundry found a small brass Howitzer and walked otf with it to 
their (luarters. There tliey mounted it on sticks, directed it towards 
Co. D's (luarters, witli tlie remark tliat if Co. D did not do this and 
that they would tire on us and often went throu^^h the motions to show 
how they would do the act. It was great amusement for Co. K but no 
amusement for Co. D, and must be put to an end. John J. Whittam 
and William L. Lee planned to steal the gun. John W. Burch, of the 
•'Methodist mess," was fond of lecturing the boys for their delinciuencies 
and for a joke on him got him to go with them. '"Only a jokeon Co. K." 
They chose the late hours of a dark night to do the deed, which, like 
other dark deeds committed by Jolin and Mill, proved successful. The 
cannon was taken to Lieut. King's tent and hid under his bunk. Co. 
K never mistrusted, or at least said nothing, as to where the cannon 
was or who "faked it." Next day it was decided that it would l^e a 
grand scheme to send the gun home to Cedar Eapids as a momenlo of 
Co. D for all time to come, so Burch and others made a box, put in the 
cannon and loaded it into John W. Rowan's wagon. John was regi- 
mental teamster. John had charge of the gun a short time— long 
enough though to give him the idea that lie stole the gun and that he 
was sole owner, and he still imagines that he is the man. Soon there- 
after the regiment was ordered to be discharged and started for home. 
The cannon was then put into Homer C. Morehead's mess chest. He 
was quartermaster and brought the gun to Davenport, Iowa. Fnmi 
there it was sent by freight to Cedar Rapids and put in charge of Post 
88 G. A. R. Later it was given to the city provided that the c\ly 
would mount it in good style. It was mounted temporarily on a pair 
of front wheels of a light wagon and stood around in old sheds for a 
long time, the city not offering to mount it as agreed to. One night 
Capt. Hiel Hale and Ed A. Buttolph and other men got a wheelbar- 
row and took it to Ed's, where it was for over a year. During the 
campaign of 1868 it was brought out and mounted on the same old 
wheels. October 3d there was a grand parade and barbecue. A squad 
of G. A. R. men acted as artillery men; Buttolph as powder monkey. 
In a grove northeast of town was the grand stand. The little gun 
was away at a safe distance tiring salutes. Had flred some six or eight 
shots when the recoil of the gun broke the carriage all to pieces and 
the gun flew to the rear end over forty feeb, landing between But- 
tolph's feet who was sitting on the ammunition box. No one hurt; fun 
spoiled. The next day the outfit was taken to a blacksmith shop for 
repairs. Could do nothing unless the gun was there so it was left, un- 
der protest. "Oh, it will be safe, etc., etc." The proprietor of the 
shop was a strong democrat. That night the gun was taken and a lot 
of angry men was around all day— yes, for days after. The proprietor 
was arrested and held to court, an attorney hired, who afterwards set- 
tled the case without consulting the men that had the gun in charge. 
Hale and Buttolph. Many were the surmises as to the location of 
the gun, places were searched and men on the lookout at all times but 
not a whisper could be heard but that it was acted upon, but all with- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 41 

out avail. Often when any doings was to go on it was rumored that 
the gun would be brought out and company D boys and friends would 
lay for it. Many oaths were sworn that no one should ever fire that 
cannon without our consent. Time passed. 188-4 Cleveland was elect- 
ed president. The democrats were to have a grand ratification at 
Cedar Rapids; amunition bought and fixed for the little cannon which 
was to be brought out and tired for a democratic victory. Again Hale 
and others of company D and friends was on the lookout and many 
old G. A. R. men, regardless of politics, swore that if the democrats 
undertook to fire that gun it would be over their dead bodies. The 
night of the blowout came; excitement was at blood heat. More than 
one man in that crowd carried arms. The old blacksmith shop had a 
number of spies watching it, and all was sure of a row and eager and 
ready for it. It put me in mind of war times just before a battle. 
Angry words were uttered but none came to blows. The old army 
boys were used to such scenes and were cool. The cannon was not 
brought out and a good deal of chaff was fired at the democrats for 
cowardice, and it was some time before all was quiet, until the spring 
of '85. Then the question was up again. A railroad man was having 
his horse shod at the same shop. In stamping a horse broke a hole in 
the floor and he reported he saw the cannon under the floor. There 
had been so many false rumors that not much notice was taken of the 
last rumor, and all was quieting down when one morning in March, 
1888, the cannon was found in the alley near the shop from which it 
was stolen, the night of October 4th, 1868. The news flew and great 
was the excitement. It was wrapped in an old gunny sack, as the 
railroad man reported. Pinned to it was a note, as follows: 

"Taken from John Mehan's shop about twenty years ago. Re- 
turned to the same place by the only surviving member of the abduc- 
tors. Cleveland is president and the little cannon has slept long 
enough. It is to be hoped that it will be better guarded in the future. 
The parties who removed the same have never been referred to in con- 
nection therewith." "Old Cannon." 

It is still a secret as to who the parties were. No man could han- 
dle it easily alone. It was taken to the police station and laid in the 
window where it was viewed by many, then turned over to Col. T. Z. 
Cook Post G. A. R. They have a temporary carriage and use it only 
for G. A. R. purposes. It may find a rest in the lodge room. 



Randalia, Ioava, May 20, 1892. 
/. iV. Weaver, Sioux City, Iowa: 

Dear Comrade: You are probably aware by telegram sent from 
Ft. Dt)dge that it was not my fault that I did not meet you on the 18th 
or 19th. It was with many regrets that we abandoned the expedition 
and retreated to our homes. I wrote Comrade Reed that I would be 
there or bust. Well, I'm not busted but the Illinois Central was and 
I am home again safe and sound, but not so with Comrade Latimer, 



42 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



who, on jumping off street train here yesterday fell and bruised him- 
self considerably but not seriously. 

We enjoyed ourselves at Ft. Dodge as only old '"boys" can under 
such unfavorable circumstances. We have as yet heard no report from 
the Sioux City branch of our association, whetlier you organized, what 
you did, and when and wliere we sliall make the next attempt to meet. 
We left Ft. Dodge about li p. m. the l.Sth, before we had any news 
from you, but upon arrival at Independence found that you had re- 
membered us by instructing agent to return us at one-third fare. 
Many thanks, t presume we should not have enjoyed ourselves very 
well had we been there, surrounded as you were by the excitement and 
sorrow of others. Yours in F. C. and L. 

H. ,T. Grannis. 

Hanover, III., May 5, 1892. 
/. E. Simpson, Sec'y, Norfolk, Neh.: 

My Dear Comrade: I have been looking forward with a great deal 
of pleasure to meeting the boys at Sioux City on the 18th inst., but 
circumstances oblige me to sail from New Orleans on that date, to set- 
tle an estate at Honduras, C. A. Remember me kindly to the com- 
rades and particularly to Co. "A." I very much regret my inability to 
be with you. Yours in F. C. and L., 

E. C. Coombs, 
Late Company "A." 

Hesper, Iowa, June .3d, 1892. 
,Mr. J. E. Sini'pson: 

Dear Comrade: I received your very welcome letter and have had 
time to consider it well. I am of the same opinion as the rest of you 
m reg-ird to having our reunions oftener. I should say liave them as 
often as once every two j ears. We are all growing old and ^is the years 
roll on time is making its inroads in our ranks and the time is cctming 
when we shall meet tlie last enemy and he will conquer, and then 
there will be no more meetings for us here on earth. I am extremely 
sorry that we could not have all got together at Sioux City this spring 
but fate was against us, although we had a good time at Slieldon. 
There were Dr. Barr and wife, Capt. Soper and wife, Sergt. Winters 
and wife, Gilbert Ness, Mage Bowen, A. H. Groves, myself and wife, 
making a nice company. 

You mentioned Chicago to be the next place for our reunion. I 
think it would not be a suitable place as there would be so much to 
see and it would have a tendency to mar the benefit we aim in our re- 
unions. I speak for myself alone. You also mentioned Sioux City for 
our next. If the citizens wish it I think it but right they should have 
the llrst chance, they went to t-o much trouble and expense to make 
this one pleasant and agreeable for us. 

P. S.: My wife and I send our best wishes to you and family. 
From your old friend and comrade. 

M. E. Meader. 

Speilville, Iowa, May 12, 1892. 
Dear Friend and Comrade, J. E. Simpson: 

Your invitation received. I am sorry to say that I am not able to 
be present, as I have been sick all winter. I am now so that I can 
walk on crutches from one room to the other. I hope all the boys of 
the 12th will have a joyful time. My best regards to you all. 

Your comrade, J. B. Thompson. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 43 

Pheckpt, Furnas Co.. Neij., May Ttli, 1H!)2. 
Dear Comrade Simjjson: 

I received the anriouncenient 12tl) Iowa reunion. Many thanks 
for it. I regret very iniicli that eirciunstances prevent nie from meet- 
ing with the eomratles at Sioux City. I will send one dollar to become 
a member of the association. I would like; to ask Col. Stibbs if he 
still has that silver mounted revolver that the Conferlerate otiicer tried 
to make him give up when we wen; taken prisoners at Tittsljiirg land- 
ing. The officer hit him over the head with his sword and (\iv\\ \y,\ck 
to hit him again, but tlie Col. ke!)t the revolv(!r. 

Your comrade;, 

W. V,. Keith, Co. "K." 

HiTESVILLE, liUTLEU Co., lowA, Mav 20. 1892. 
J. E. Simps^rm. Scr'y, Norfolk, Neb.: 

Dear Comiiade: We old vets here feel very much disai)pointod in' 
our reunion. We left home Tuesday morning, ITtli, for Sioux City: 
got delayed on the road and the wasliout got us so we could not tret 
there; was within four miles of Le Mars and could get no fartlier: got 
home yesterday. There was on the train the following 12l,h Iowa boys 
and their families: 

M.vself and wife, of Co. E, Hitesville, Iowa. 
C. V. Surfus and wife. Co. E. linstow. Iowa. 
J. W. Rich and wife. Co. E, Vinton, Iowa. 
David Creighton. Co. K. (Jeneva, Iowa. 
P. II. Morehouse. Co. K. Masf)nville, Iowa. 
W. H. McCune, Co. II, Iluthven, Iowa. 

I thought I would write this to let you know that we done the best 
we could to get tliere, and was very much disappointed in not getting 
there. 

Now we do not like tf) wait ff)ur years for a reunion; would it not 
be a good idea to try and all meet at Storm Lake, .June Ki, 17, 18 and 
19, when the Northwestern Soldier's Association luivc llieir camp tire. 
IJut at least, all I have talked with do not desire to have the rcumion 
put off very long. I hope those of you that did get to Sioux City did 
have a good time. We telegraphed t^o you at Sioux City frf)m llamsen 
but could not get you before we left to go back to Clierokee. We 
thought we could go by Sheldon but could not. I remain, 
llespectfully your old comrade, 

J. S. MaRGI!ETZ. 

Late of Co. "E"' 12th Iowa V. V. Inft. 

Columbus, Ohio, July 14, 1892. 
Mr. Simpson: 

Dear Sir: I received one of your letters today relating to the 
reunicm at Sioux City, last May, from Gen. Stibbs. I did not 
know he was in Cliicago until I saw his name in the newspaper. 
I am willing to hold the next reunion wherever tlie boys say. I have 
never been to one .so I am in the dark in that respect. I was the 
youngest i)rivate soldier in the 12th; I belonged to Co. I. I was 
wounded at Tupelo, Miss., July 18fi4; I could not be taken back to 
Memphis, so I was left in the iiands of the Ilebs. I never .seen the 
12th after that. I liad a cousin, Mike Nagle, living in Dubuque. He 
Ijelonged to Co. I. Do you know his address? I see old liill Kohler's 
name in your letter: he and I were in prison together. You bet your 
bottom dollar, old comrade, you let me know when and where the 



nr 



44 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

next reunion will be held and if T am walking around on top of earth I 
will be there. Write and let me know all the particulars. 
Your friend and comrade, 

John Devine, 
Arcade Hotel. Co. I, 12th 1. V. V. I. 

Spencer, Ohio, May 12th, 1892. 
Comrades of the 12th, and Especially of Co. K: 

I have always had an ardent desire to attend the reunion of my 
old rejjiment, but distance, business or other hindering circumstances 
have always so far intervened and I have always promised myself from 
year to year, that tlie next I would surely go. So that as I see anoth- 
er opportunity go by. 1 feel an added disappointment and have made 
up my mind to put iu appearance anyhow, if oidy by a letter of regret. 
Boj's, I am there in spirit and send, Hail! and farewell. When the 
pipes are lighted think of Your old comrade 

Richard Freeman. 

Elavood, Iowa, May 11th, 1892. 
D. D. McCalhtm, Sibley, Iowa: 

Dear Sir and Comrade of Co. "I'' 12th Iowa: For the past year I 
have been looking forward to our reunion with gladness and made 
preparations to be there and be one of you. iUit today changes have oc- 
curred to prevent my being present. I therefore send greetings to all 
old comrades of the 12th, from Gen. Stibl3s down to that popular pri- 
vate, Ed Buttolph. Your comrade, 

Geo. Teskey. 



Manchester, Iowa, July 29th, 1892. 
Capt. J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Nebmslfa: 

Dear Friend and Comrade: Yours of the 25th inst. received. 
Always pleased to hear from you: wish I could meet you oftener that 
it is our privilege to shake. I will acknowledge that I received all 
circulars and printed matter relating to the 4th quadrennial reunion 
of our old 12th Iowa regiment at Sioux City. Wliile ihat enjoyable 
event did not fully materialize.it was not however the fault of our 
very efficient executive committee, and as to the time and place when 
and where we should hold our 5th reunion I am very willing to leave 
all that matter to our executive board. I am satisfied i hey will make 
no mistake. I am pleased to learn from you that the proceedings at 
Sioux City are to be compiled and printed. I know from past experi- 
ence that it is quite a task but the boys will be quite thankful. I am 
glad that a carefully written biography of Col. Wood's life is to appear 
in connection with the proceedings of the reunion at Sioux City. Dr. 
Barr had the distribution of our copies of the 3d reunion at Waterloo. 
I presume he has some copies still on hand: if you will write him I 
think he can and will furnish you with some copies. If you And the 
doctor cannot furnish them let me know and I will skirmish around 
among the boys here and see if I cannot find you a few copies. I am 
pleased to learn that your health is fairly good. My condition is no 
worse than it has been for the past few years. The survivors of our 
regiment residing here are well. Please remember me kindly to Mrs. 
Simpson and bear in mind that the love you express for mt is heartily 
reciprocated by me. While I remain 

Very truly yours. Geo. H. Morrisey. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 45 

Gila Bend, Ariz., May 5, 1892. 
To the Executive Committee of the Quadrennial Reunion of the I'we^fth Inwa 
Vet. Vol. Inft.: 
Comrades: I have received your circular and the supplementary 
thereto in due time, and it created such a feeling of homesickness that 
it will be Impossible for me to write my regrets, as is usual, but will 
say instead that when roll is called some comrade— Sargeant Eldredge 
—will say here at my name for I shall be with you, if in spirit only. 
My .health has bean so poor for a long time that it will be impossible 
to bring this crippled old body of mine so far. First, because it would 
cost too much and second, it would be a severe test on tliese old rheu- 
matic bones. If Gen. J. II. Stibbs will let me know his address I 
would like to communicate witli him or in fact, any and all of the 
members of the regiment with whom I am acquainted. At least one 
certainty remains for me, 1 shall meet voii all when the clarion notes 
of the bugle is heard from beyond. A^ei'y tiuly yours, 

Ltithek Waltenbacii, 
Late Co. "F" 12th Reg't Iowa Vol. Inft. 

Vinton, Iowa, May 2.3, 1892. 
J. E. Simiymn, Sec'y 12th loioa yl.s.s'ji, Norfolk, Neh.: 

Dear Comrade: In company with four others, I was caught in 
the storm of Tuesday night. May 17-18, and failed to get to Sioux City. 
Our train stopped at Remsen, a little east of Le Mars. We tried to 
flank the flftod from Cherokee, but failed, so returned home. It was a 
great disappointment to us. 

I suppose there are some dues to be paid. I am ready to pay mine 
as soon as tlie amount is known, I would like a badge such as I sup- 
pose was prepared for the 4th reunion. If you have a spare one please 
send it. Very truly, 

J. W. Rich, 
Co. "E" 12th Infantrv. 



Interesting letters were received before and at the time of the re- 
union from comrades. Space and want of time will prevent our print- 
ing them in full, and with many others received in answer to the cir- 
cular letter of May 21st, all breathing a spirit of love and tenderness 
towards comrades and memories of the past thirty years ago — that 
tells the story that while years have brought gray hairs and bowed 
forms — the hearts beat warm and loving yet. We note as follows: 

Abram Billings and wife, Luzerne, N. Y. 

Chas. McCabe, Sherburne, Minn. 

W. A. Lyon, West Union, Iowa. 

Mrs. A. J. Millett. 512 Burlington Ave., South Hastings, Neb. 

A. Brothers, Magnolia, Ohio. 

G. A. Hauge, Albert Lea, Minn. 

N. J. Davis, Berrien Springs, Mich. 

S. .1. Crowhurst, Salem, S. D. 

W. M. Van Ernan, Grandview, S. D. 
. G. W. Kirkland, Freeport, Iowa. 

S. Cook, Ionia, Neb. 

A. Tobiason, Windom, Minn. 



40 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 

P. R. Woods, Fayette, Iowa. 

James P. Cook, Ponca, Neb. 

J. Watrobeck, Cotterville, Mo. 

J. II. Shunuikcr, Waterloo, Iowa. 

J. Belton, Batavia, Minn. 

Geo. H. Cobb, Eldora. Iowa. 

I. W. King, Emcrick, Neb. 

J. F. Zedeiker, care Nebraska State .lournal. Lincoln. Neb. 

W. R. Mathas. Omaba, Nel). 

Hans Hanson, Lake Park, Minn. 

S. Kemp, Alden, Iowa. 

C. G. Russell, Brooklyn, Mo. 
W. H. Cox, Blaine, Iowa. 

J. W. Cotes, Talcott, S. D. 

D. W. Ballinger, Lacey, Iowa. 
W. II. McCune, Rutbven, Iowa. 
Frank Renchin, Blooming Prairie, Minn. 
N. H. Baldwin, Ada, Kan. 

Ezra Strong, National City, Cal. 

Wm. L. Fry, Scranton City, Iowa. 

Geo. Nauman, North Platte, Neb. 

Ira D. Blanchard, No. 1917 Jefferson St., Duhitli, Minn. 

H. Ellgen, Bolan, Iowa. 

James Shorter, Shell Rock, Iowa. 

C. E. Merriam, Hopkinton, Iowa. 
A. H. Groves, Decorah, Iowa. 
Peter Moe, Springfield, Minn. 

A. B. Periy, Dunkerton, Ic)wa. 
Zeph Reed, Fredonia, Iowa. 
J. Halfhill, Wood, Iowa. 
S. C. Fishel, Iowa Falls, Iowa. 
S. W. Norris, Maquoketa, Iowa. 

E. Engbretson, Aastad, Minn. 

T. J. Lewis, 388 First Ave., West Cedai' Rapids. Iowa. 
L. I). Morris, Worthing, S. D. 

F. C. Nelson, Hazleton, Iowa. 
John Brenmer, Yankton. S. D. 

D. V. Ellsworth, Newman Grove, Neb. 
C. M. Riinkle, Plankinton, S. D. 

G. Hazlet, Allison, Iowa. 

L. H. Maupsen, Franklin, Neb. 

R. D. Williams, West Union. Iowa. 

J. D. Cole, Lansing, Iowa. 

E. S. Sawin. Union, Iowa. 



iifftSSiXifkmimiiSUii 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 47 

RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE SOCIETY OF THE 
TWELFTH REGIMENT OF IOWA VETERAN VOL- 
UNTEERS BEFORE ADJOURNMENT. 

Before the Twelfth Iowa adjourned its reunion Friday evening the 
resolutions committee, consisting of R. W. Tirrill, J. II. Stibbs and 
W. L. Henderson, reported the following resolutions, which were 
unanimously adopted: 

Resolved, Tliat we greatly appreciate the attendance of so many 
of our fellow comrades at this our quadrennial reunion under such un- 
favorable circumstances, and while many were enroute unable to reach 
us, owing to high water and wasliouts, yet the frequent and warm 
heartfelt congratulations extended over the wii'es from the various 
points of their temporary rendezvous thrilled us with an electrical en- 
thusiasm which seemed to unite us more tlrmly in the bonds of one 
common brotherhood, 

i?e,so?i'efZ., That we heartily sympathize with the people of Sioux 
City in the sad calamity, through an unprecedented flood, which so 
suddenly and completely overcame them on the morning of our first 
meeting; and while we are fully aware of the preparations being made 
to give us a royal welcome and heartily extend to us hospitalities com- 
mensurate with the usual warmheartedness of Sioux City enthusiasm, 
yet we commend the diversion of that same spirit of enthusiasm, won- 
derfully intensified, in the direction of charity unspai'ingly adminis- 
tered to their unfortunate fellow-citizens. 

Bcsolvcd, That the thanks of the association are due Comrades 
John N. Weaver and J. E. Simpson for their untiring efforts in the 
great work of preparation and their devoted zeal during all of our 
meetings. 

Resolved, That we extend our thanks to the K. P. band for their 
excellent music rendered under a reduced rate, and to the Scliubert 
quartette for their thrilling songs voluntarily rendered. 

Resolved, Tliat we extend our warmest thanks and a rekindling of 
our old-fashioned brotherly love to comrades 'i\ R. McKee and S. M. 
French for a rehearsal of those same old battle songs, the reveille, 
tattoo, "'The Girl I Left Behind Me," and the long roll from the same 
old identical life and drum that followed us from Camp Union to the 
gulf. 

Resolved. That we deeply dei^lore the great loss we have sustained 
by the death of our Comrades and Col's J. J. Wf)ods and S. R. Edg- 
ington. That we heartily sympathize with their families, in tlieir sad 
bereavement and we shall ever hold in greatful remembrance their no- 
ble qualities — as faithful soldiers, loving comrades and hcmored citi- 
zens. 

Resolved. That in the death of our Comrades Sergt. Emery Clark, 
Co. "C," A. C. Gilmore, Co. '"H," C. E. Phillips, Co. "K," E. V.Andrus, 
Co. "G." A. W. Myers, J. C. Jones and James Demoss, of Co. "E," and 
other dear comrades whose names we have been unable to obtain and 
at present must leave among the great unknown. We one, each and 
all reminded of the sure and gradual depletion of oar ranks and that 
the loving hand of the Great Father is ever open lo receive us at the 
bivouac of the eternal camping ground. That we sincerely sympa- 
thize with all the families of our deceased comrades and we shall ever 
hold in sacred remembrance their loving qualities as comrades, their 
undaunted courage as soldiers, and their unswerving fidelity as hf>n- 
orcd citizens. 



48 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



Roster of Members of the 12th Iowa V. V. Infantry, so 
far as Known at the time of this Reunion. 



FIELD AND STAFF. 
Colonel— .T. H. Stibbs, Room 88 P. O. Building, Chicago, 111. 
Lt. Colonel— S. G. Knee, Colesburg, Iowa. 

Major— S. D. Brodtbeck, 113 South Broadway, Los i\ngelcs, Cal. 
Major— E. M. Van Duzee, St. Paul, Minn. 

Major— D. W. Reed, Suite 814 Chamber of Commerce, Chicago, 111. 
Surgeon— C. C. Parker, Fayette, Iowa. 
Surgeon— Myron Underwood, Eldora, Iowa. 
Ass't Surgeon— W. H. Finley, Franklin, Neb. 
Ass't Surgeon — James Barr, Algona. Iowa. 

Adjutant N. E. Duncan, care U. S. Custom Hou.'-e, Kansas City, Mo. 
Adjutant— S. R. Burcb, Olatbe, Kansas. 
Quartermaster — G. H. Morrisey, Manchester, Iowa. 
Quartermaster— H. C. Morehead, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 
Chaplaifa — Frederick Humphrey, Fairmount, Minn. 
Hospital Steward— J. C. H. Ilobbs, U41 G Street, Lincoln, Neb. 
Hospital Steward— J. J. Walker, De Witt. Missouri. 
Com. Sergt. — James Evans, Dubuque, Iowa. 
Sergt. Major— A. J. Rodgers, St. Paul, Minn. 
Drum Major— T. R. McKee, Room 102, Boston Bl'k, Denver, Col. 
Fife Major— D. S. Martin, Iowa FaKs, Iowa. 
Fife Major— S. M. French, Room 102, 'Boston Bl'k, Denver, Col. 

COMPANY A. 

Armstrong, B A, Liscomb, Iowa. Bowers, I H Eldora, la 
Bird, G M, Illinois. Bell, Thos R, Iowa Falls, Iowa 

Brother, A, Magnalia, O. Brown, S B, Jewell City. Kan 

Congar, J D Eldora Hardin Co, la Clarkson, R P, Des Moines, la 
Cromwell, T C, Oakland, la Combes, E C, Hanover, 111 

Cobb, G H, Eldora, la. Crist, Job, Marshalltown, la 

Dobbins, Hiram Jewel Co, Kan, R Dobbins, Levi, Eldora, la 
Ellsworth, I) V, Newman Grove, Edgington, T B, 18 Madison St 

Nebraska Memphis, Tenn. 

Ferree. S R, Belle Plaine, la Fountain. Francis 

Haskins, G H, Maryville, Mo Glass, Carl, Dayton (Mill Home) O 

Hunter, J R C, Webster, la Havwood. W P, Lions, la, R 

Iback, B D, Eldora, la Hobbs, J C 11,1441 G St,Lincoln,Neb 

Kidwiler, M, Mo Jackson, Samuel, Oregon 

Kellogg, R E, Dows, la Kemp, Sumner, Alden, la 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 49 

Macy, SeLli, Des Moines, la Lefever, Simon, Bolekow, Mo 

Mann, A J, Perry, la McPlierson, W G 

ISIooie, G W. Mary vi lie. Mo Moore, W W, Manchester, la 

Miller, Zabina Mann, Wni, Steamboat Rock, la. R 

Mitclieli. (r W. Lawn Hill, la Martin, 1) S, Iowa P'alls, la 

Parisli. William Richards, William 

Reed. G W, Yaikie, Mo Riinkle, G M, Plankinton, Dak 

liiilo. G W. South Bend. Ind Richards, Jos, P>oone. la, R 

Spiague. K S, Fremont, Neh. R Sawin. E S, Union, la 

Wilson. T H. Robertson, la Walker. Samuel. Dewitt, Mo. R 

Welsh, Nathan Wickam. A J, Eagle City, la 

Webb, A E, Eldora, la Zieger, J W. Eld(.ra, la ' 

Zieger. N W 

COMPANY B. 

Captain Willard C Earle Waukon. Iowa 

' • Watson 11 Hanscom • . died ' ' 

1st Lieut L II Merrill died. Montgomery , Ala., May 29, 1862 

J H Borger died, Salt Creek Station. 111. 

J P Jackson Village Creek, Iowa 

2d Lieut. J DCole Lansing. '■ 

Sergt Maj A J Rodgers St. Paul, Minn 

1st Sergt Geo Ibach Preston, Minn 

Sergt. J 1) Spaulding dead 

Elias Repp 

1) Harbaugh died at Macon. Ga., Oct. 15, 1862 

Henry Fry Pennsylvania 

" W P Winter Bancroft, Iowa 

" John Upstrom 403 4th Street, Sioux Falls. S D 

'• R B Sargent Kansas 

Corp'l H Goodrich 

M J Roe died at Macon, Ga., Sept 29. 1882 

" F E Hancock died at Annapolis, Md., Oct 27. 1862 

" Stephen Tliibeda Waukon. Iowa 

" Robert Wampler " •• 

" Aslak Larson Preston, Minn 

Fred Monk Eitzen, " 

" L D Bearce Onawa, Iowa 

M Engelhorn Kan.sas 

'• W B Bort Viroqua, Wis 

Wagoner E J White died at French Creek, Iowa 

Wagoner Augustus H West Andrews. H R, West Union, la 

Adams. O F Bailey, Geo N, St Paul, Minn 

Bailey. W F, St Paul. Minn Beise'l, J B, died Lansing, la, 

Feb 25, 1864 
Brock, (Uistavus Bryant, J L, died Macon, 

Ga., Sept 25, '62 
Butts, J H, Cherokee, la Bathen, Robt, Riceville, Minn 

Barnhart, Amos L, Bort, A K, Viroqua, Wis 

died May4'64, Memphis, Tenn Bort, M Jas, died at Lansing, la 
Burnham, H Burlingame, O D, 193 

Calico, Geo,died St Louis, Jan 7 '62 South Water St, Chicago, 111 

Churchill, L B Candee, Geo 

Decker, Adam. Lansing, Iowa Castellar, Frank 
Dodge, Ansel H, deserted 1861 Deeney, Cornelius, died Milwau- 

Dowling, John, French Creek, la kee '64, at Soldiers' Home 

Edwards. Isaac Dowling, Thos, Rossville, Iowa 

Ericksen, E A. Salem, Dak Ettle, George, Waukon, Iowa 

Ferguson. B, Akron. la Feidt, John 



ssKivsi-, J ■^i!.r^^'f'i2-i-4,^ •eiv/lJi^fe'fil'Sskiij;^-? -.-v.^i2:*i •ajteAiafiiSS 



;■() Fonirni reunion of the 



(Jrt'onap. S II, Mollcy. Minn (rDfxlykoonts. I) F. Uooiic. Iowa 

(Jritlin. Law renci'. (Icsci'tcd (Ji-ccmii). p] T, diod.lul.v 18, 

Hawkins. Hiram l.S(i4. Memphis, Tonn 

Hanson. .lens, died Oct 5, "«i2, 
Hanson. O. died .Iun(> .'{0. ■(>2. Macon. (Ja 

Atlanta, (ia Ilucstis. J II. Watorville. la 
Hnsi'hes. .Ino. died St Lonis. Mo Ilannan, Lawrence, died .hdv 28 
Husted. Jacob M. died .Inly 29. 18()4. Cairo. Ill 

1S()4. Memphis. Tenn Isted. I 15 S. Milwaukee, Wis. U 
Iverson, Knud. Lansinj^-. la Jennin<^s. I) V 

Jones, Ileni-y Johnson, Lewis 

Kimr-Chas. (VdOct. 12"()2,Macon,(Ja Klees. Fiank, Rossville. la 
Knuck. Henry •• 10 ■()2. " Knndson, Hans 

KU'ven.Sani Auf? 24 "()2, '• Lankins, F W, died in Nebraska 

Lene. Aut>ust. killed. Tupalo. Lewis. Fdwaid 

Miss, Juh 1.'), l.S()4 Larson, Kensil 
Larkins, Rees N Maynard, W M, died Sept (i 

McCabe, ilujiii. Waukon. Iowa 18(1.3, Vicksiiur^, Miss 

McKay. Frank Mc(Juire. Riian. Freeport, 111, 11 

Miner. Jaspei' J. died Dec 24. 'HI McClintock, Jas, llossville, la 
McI)onald. James Mann, Ansel E. dead 

Noves, Alonzo Noyes, Clias H, died Aug 7 

Nve, (r F, d"d Nov (i. '(i:iLansin<,^ la 1S()2, Macon. Ga 

Ogan. Chas C. Sibley. la Oleson. Ole 

Oleson, Barnhart Oleson, Jno. S]M'ing (Jrove. Minn 

IVterson, Boie Perry, Edwin U. died Nov (i, "()2 

i'aLteison. Jas W, died of wounds Annapolis, Md 

July 24, ■(i4, Mempliis, Tenn Peck. Ira E, d'd J"v Ki, "(12, Macon, Ga 
Peck, John P. Plankinton, S I) Peck, Simon, d"d Sept 24. •' 
Pratt, M H. Snokane Falls, Wash Plank, Levi, Lake De Fnniak, Fla 
Porter, John H Piatt, U G, Storm Lake, la 

Russell. Chas. lirooklvn. Mo Roe, Charles E 

Sohn, Jno. d'd Dec 21, '"62, St Louis Stack. Thos, d'd Jan 11. ■()2. St Louis 
Schitt'hauer, Rich Sjodin, Peter, dead 

Scot t. Jos. d'd Oct .'U. ■«)2. St Louis Stecker. Wm 
Slillman, Jno J. killed Feb 13 Stortz. Joseph 

"62, Ft Donolson. Tenn Smith. C S, North McGregor, la 
Smith. Ira J Sanner. Michael F. Rossville. la, R 

Thayer. Jesse Thronson, Knud, died June 30 

Woodmansee. Isaac. Rossville. la ■<)2. Atlanta. Ga 

White, Wm M. died June 30 Wood, Edwin W" 

'62. Macon. Ga Wood, Stejjhen 
Winter. Rufus. dead Wilber. Robert 

Walcoit, Daniel H. died Nov 23 Winter. Francis A. killed July 

'65. Talladega, Ala 14, '(54. Tupelo. Miss 

Warberg.Ole R,Spring Grove,Min R 

Note:— Total number of Company, 132; of whom repf)rtcd dead. 
42: disability during service. 30: from wounds. 4: woiuided in action, 
3."): taken ])risoners April (i, '()2. at Shiloli, Tenn., ad: killed inaction, 3. 

COMPANY C. 

Captain Wm Warner died at Memphis. Tenn, Dec 12, 1863 

•' Geo W Cook, R Medicine Lodge, Kan 

David W Reed (Major 12th Iowa) 

Suite 814. Chamber of Commerce, Chicago. 111. 

" Wm L Henderson Riceville. Iowa 

1st Lieut David B Henderson, (Col 46th Iowa) Dubuque, Iowa 

Ilenrv J Grannis Randalia, Iowa 

2d Lieut Aaron M Smith died at South Bend. Ind. Jan 1. 1883 



TWELFTH IOWA V. \. INFANTRY. 51 

1st Ser^t .)er F Hutchins, (Capt Co E. 12th la) Minneapolis, Minn 

Nars^-eiit (Gilbert llazlott Allison, Iowa 

Emery Claik. dead E.staline. Dak 

" James Stewart West Union, Iowa 

" Pliilo li Woods Fayette. Iowa 

riiineas Iv Ketchum. 1\ Windsor, Iowa 

Frank U' Moine Strawberry Point, Iowa 

Corporal David Connoi' died of wounds. Nashville, Jan 5, 18(55 

Thomas Henderson killed at Shiloh, April 6. 18(52 

Samuel F lirush died at Macon. Ga. Oct 31, 18(i2 

'• (Jeo L Durno Springville, Iowa 

'• James Barr. ( Ass't Surg 12th Iowa) Aigona. Iowa 

Daniel 1) Wainer died at Macon, Ga, Sept 10, IHiVl 

John W Hysong West Point, Neb 

'• Joseph I) Baker Monti vidio, Minn 

" Geo E Comstock Manchester, Iowa 

'• Henry C Curtis Leniars, Iowa 

John A Delezene Rock Rapids, Minn 

William H Jordon Cheney, Wash 

'■ Amos K Ketchum Clarion. Iowa 

John E Kent Belle Plaine, Iowa 

1 W King Emerick, Neb 

Musician Sumner Hartshorn Dundee, Musician 

xVbbott. Edward J.Santa Anna. Cal Ayers, J L, d"d Macon, Ga, Oct 3, '62 
Beck, Samuel C, Waverly, Iowa Adams,Ed,d'dFayette,Ia.Dec20,'71 
Baliinger. John W, Lacey, Iowa Blanchard,S S,died at Pottsville, la 
lirown. John T lirovvn. Albert, re-enlisted in 9th 

Bi'own. Geo, Woodstock, 111. R Iowa cav.. killed by accident at 

Burroughs. Get) A Douglas, Iowa Hickory Plain, Ark, Dec 24. "(5-1 
Barton, Alvah H Bowers, Wm H, Limestoneville, Pa 

Bushnell. A bner C, died at Baker, Miles.d'd Nov 19, "(57, Eden, la 

Pueblo. Col. Jan, 1892 Beadle,IIenry, d'd Macon, Aug 9, '62 
P>arr. Henry. Tama county, Iowa P>rown, Addison L, des'ed Selraa, Ala 
Barnes, .las. (transfer from 27) Becktell, David '1\ Volga City, la 
Benjamin. Nathan, drafter! Brant, Allen, transfer from 27 

Bennetieid, Wm. substitute Fairbanks, Iowa 

Cliase. T H. d'd St Louis Mar 28. "62 Browsley, Wm, drafted 
Connor, Felix " Jan 14, '62 Clark, Henry, Melbourne, la, R 
Connjr, Dan'l " '' Connor. Sam"l, Maxwell, la 

Crossman. Silas, died Elgin, la Card, Silas B 

April 14, 1881 Clawson.Elij. d'd St Louis Jan 10,'(52 
Carmichael. Jas H. Illyria, Iowa Carrington, Cha^-, Mitchell county 
Comstock. Frank. St Louis CanHeld. Theron P, 27th la, 

Davis. Jay C, Wis Buffalo Grove, Iowa, R 

Davis, A J. Berrian Spring, Mich Delezene, Benj, Republic City, Kan 
Dawson. John. 27th Iowa Forbes, David, Elgin. la 

Forbes, Wm d'd St Lf)uis Jan 2. '62 Grannis, Geo W, missing at Shi- 
George. Henry, died of wounds loh, never heard from 

" M'd Citv, May 2, '62 Gifford. Simeon, Douglass, la 
Gillam, Ezekiel D. 27th Iowa Hood.ArzoF,d'd StLouis, Jan31,"62 

Hazlett, John B. Sioux Falls, S D Hamlin, Wm A, Crawford, Neb 
House, Nathan, died Savannah IHll. John W 

Tenn, April, 18(52 Hill, Benj J 
Hendershot, Thos, Plainview, Neb Henkee, Martin, died at 
Henselbecker, Henry, Blutfton, la Memphis, April 17, 1864 

HinlveJ, Edward. Winfield. Iowa Hamlin, Lyman S, Oelwein, la 
Jordon. Isadore L. Alton, Ivan Husted, Jacob M 
Jaques. Luther, Crawford, Neb Henderson, Jas A, 27th Iowa, 
Jones, Geo M. drafted Cherokee, Iowa 

Jewell, Jas E, 27th Iowa Jones,Henry, d'd St Louis Jan 17, "62 



52 FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



.7ack\va.v.(J H. 2Tth la. Lainotit. la Jordon, Daniel 1\I, killod at 

Kent. Win A, Harmn. Wis llocialale, Tex, Nov 10, 1881 

Lewis, Leroy.i I'd St Louis. .Ian 3. "()3 Kelley, Artemus 

Latliincr. (Jeo IL West (Jatc. la Kclsoy, E A, Tripoli. la 

Lyons. Wni A. West Union. la Lattinier. Robt Z. Fayette. la 

Lott, Lawrence. 1249 Larson, Clias,l<illed Sliiloh Apr (>, '(12 

llein|)sliiie St, Quincy, 111 Little, .latnes 
Mattocks. Jason L, MmneaDolis Munger. Albert P.Cowlitz, "Wasli.R 

" Ross, Wadena. Iowa ISlcCail. Daniel E. Culver, Kan 

McCall, J no W. Neniaiia, Neb Mclntyre, Tlios .1, died at 

Vicksl)urg, Feb 2(). "(iS 
]VrcElvain..Ino.d"d ]McL(>ansl)()ro,lll Mucliniore, Ste;)lien D. 27th 
Martin, Ciias L 2Ttli. llorton. la Pendleton, Chas E. killed 
Patterson. Samuel W, 27tli Shiloli. April (>, 1802 

Proctor, (Jeo W. 2Ttli. Lawrens. la Pitts. .las. drafted, London. Kan 
Priclut. .Ino L, drafted Quivey. Wni W, Pierce, Neb 

Quivey,.Ino.(r(l Oct 4. '(12. Macon. (Ja Russell, (rranville. died Feb 17 
Rod^iei's, Reuben F. Waucoma. Li '62, St Louis 

Rockwell. Wm R. drafted 
Rodolpli, .John J Simar,Wirrd E,rd Macon, Oct 10. '62 

SiM'ars, Niles IL West Gate, Ta Smii-h, Norton T. killed at 
Smith, Jacob R. Ft Smith, Ks Vicksburtr, May 22, 62 

Smith. Henry C. died May 3. Siegman.Chas.d'd An'apolisOct 27" 

"63. Miliken's IVd. La Stone, Dan'l, Waucoma, Iowa 
Stoiie,Sam"l,d'd AnnapolisOct3,'62 Spears, I) H, d'dSedalia, Novl2, 'G4 
Sykes, Orvis, Freeport, 111 Strong. John P, Schuyler, Neb 

Sherbune. Daniel Saulsbiiry. John. Ivanhoe. Kan 

Sprowls. John Utter. Albert. Sycamore, III 

Tatro, Aug, Clermont, la Williams. Rudolph, West Union, la 

N'erdin. Isaiah, C Warner, Walter H, Clermont, la 

Wallace, Chas, died .July 9, '63. Wait, A'an Buren, deserted 

Hospital Boat St Louis. April. 1863 

COMPANY I). 

Roster of the Survivors of Co. D, 12th Regiment Iowa Volunteer 
Infantry, revised and corrected by Capt. E. B. Soper, Sibley. Iowa: 

Col John IT Stibbs, room 88, PO Thomas J Lewis, Cedar Rapids, la 

building, Chicago, Illinois William L Lee, P O box 844, 
Capt Hiel Hale, Yuma, Arizona Helena, Jlontana 

Capt E B Soper, Emmetsburg, la Bentley Luse, West Liberty, Iowa 
Capt John M Clark, Cedar Rapids, Jas H Little, Mt Carmel, Illinois 

Iowa Richard S Martin 
Lieut Homer C Moorhead, Cedar Alpheus H McEntyre 

Ranids, Iowa B Frank Morrow, Georgetown, 
Lieut Eli King, Washington, Kan Custer county, Nebraska 

Lyman M Ayers, Cedar Rapids, la O H Maryatt, Del Norte. Rio 
Edwin A Buttolph, Cedar Rapids, Grande county, Colorado 

Iowa David W Minor, Areata, Hum- 
William Bumgardiner, Scranton, boldt county, Colifornia 

Iowa Nathan G Price, Jewel City. Kan 
Sylvester R Burch, Olathe, Kan J V George Price, Mountain 
Edwin H liailey, P'reedonia, Kan Grove, Missouri 

Henry W Bailey, Kirkman, Iowa Theodore L Prescott 
Allen M Blanchard, No 11 Ed- Howard Pangburn, Palouse, 

ward St, No division, Chicago, 111 Whitman county. Washington 
Thomas Barr, Shelsburgh, Iowa Dennis C Quigley. Plover, Iowa 
Jolui W Burch, Cedar Junction, John W Rowan, Vinton, Iowa 

Johnson county, Kar sas Henry W Ross, Campbell, Frank- 
A C Blood lin county, Nebraska 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 53 

Angus W Brown Frank Renchin, Blooming Prairie, 

Hiram V Cooper. Littleport. Iowa Minnesota 

Dennis Conley, Davenport, Iowa Jesse H Ross, Villa Park, Colorado 
Jas L Cowell, Walla Walla, Wash Dudley E Stedman, Vinton, Iowa 
Charles W Clark, Cedar Rapids, la Josiah Scott, Shellsburgh, Iowa 
John M Carson, Grinnell, Iowa Roswell K Soper, Estherville, la 
Isaac G Clark Joseph O Sartwell, Marion, Iowa 

Robert C Cowell, Bayard, Guthrie Aaron A Steward, Carthage, 

county, Iowa Missouri 

James C Daily, Tliayer, York Daniel Sivetts, Sublett, Adair 

county, Nebraska county, Missouri 

Ferdinand Dubois, Charter Oak, J M Tarpenning, Northville, 

Iowa Cumberland county, Tenn 

Harmon Elgin, Bolen, Worth Frank D Thompson. Nevada, la 

county, Iowa William H Trowbridge 
James D Ferner, Nevada, Iowa William M Ven Emmon, Sioux 
Samuel H Flint, care Buffalo Falls, South Dakota 

Glucose Co, Leavenworth, Kan John J Whittam 
Perry Gephart, Lake Forest, Jasper Wagner, Rome City, 

Cook county. Illinois Nobles county, Indiana 

Harmon Grass, 816 Seventh South William W Whiteneck, Waterloo, 

St, Fargo, North Dakota Iowa 

Irdill W Hollar, Forestville, John Watrobek, Cottersville, St 

Sonoma county, California Charles county, Missouri 

Robinson L Johnson. Sanford, John J Wyatt, O'Clair, Wisconsin 

Iveya Paha county, Nebraska John N Weaver, attorney at law 
John Luther, Norton, Norton Sioux City Irwa 

c unty, Kansas Byron PZuver, Adams, Nebraska 

DEATHS REPORTED SINCE LAST REUNION. 

Francis Curran, died near Marion. Iowa, Oct. .'Wth, 1890, from old 
age and general debility. 

Nick Clemens, alias Charles Ransom, died in insane asylum at To- 
peka. Kan., October 7th. 1887. from appoplexy of the brain. 

James Galliger. died at Crete, Neb.. January 31. ]88(). of Bright's 
disease. 

William C. Howard, died at Chelsey. Iowa. January 10th, 1891, of 
consumption. 

James Lannagan, died at Fontanelle, Iowa, February 4th, 188.5. 
Disease unknown. 

Jolin B. Lambert, killed by running away of team and being 
thrown from wagon, in California, early in tlie seventies. 

Allen J. Millett. died Noveml)er 28th. 1888. at Hastings, Nebraska, 
apoplexy. 

COMPANY E. 

Boone, R G. Scott, la, R Biller, A J, Waterloo, la 

Beckwitli, W H, Parkersburg. la Boylon. Thos. Stockton. Kan 
Bird, E. Winterset. la. R Bird, R L. Yuma. Col. 

Belton, Jas, Batavia, Todd Co,Minn Collins, C P, Charles City. Iowa 
Cook. Chas, Lester, la. H Creighton, David. Geneva. la 

Crowliurst, Seth J, Salem, Dak Cook, Joseph, New Castle. Neb 
Cook. J P, Ponca. Neb Cook. Svlvester, Ionia, Neb 

Coon,HF.d'dOct'81, Waterloo, la Church,' Nathan, Webster City 
Demoss, Thos, Bristow, la or Eagle Grove. la 

Elwell. John, Chicago. Ill Eberhart, Ben E, Marsluilltown. la 

Early. T M, Bristow. la Graham. Jacob, Davenport. la 



54 



FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



Hamilton, Wm, La Porte City, la 
Harrison, H J. Waterloo. la 
Large. F A, La ]\)rte City, la 
Margret/., J S, Hittsville, la 
Minium, David, Big Grove, la, R 
Perry, A li, Dunkerton, la 
Rich, J W, Vinton, la 
Stewart, Joel A, Oregon City, Ore 
Seeber, G L, Sabula, la 
Switzcr, C 11, Lewis, la 
Smith, Harvey, Waterloo. la 
Slmmaker, John, " " 

Strong, Ezra, National City, Cal 
Williams, Capt llobert, Van- 

couvre, Wash 



Hayward, C B, Mdoreville, la 
Jones, John C, Geneva, la, dead 
Mvers, A W, Shell Rock, dead 
Morris, C 1). Worthing, Dak 
Ochs, Cliarles, Ackley, Iowa 
Reed, Zetf. Hard. Louisa Co, la 
Surfus, C V. Hrislow, la 
Sunderlin, M V B, Janesville, la 
Sclirack, David, Oelwin, la 
Sharp, Oliver, Finchford, la 
Sawyer, E, La Porle Cily, la 
Shroyer, Nathaniel, Tainter, la 
Talbot, Allen E, Orleans. Ind 
Watkins, Isaac, Crawfdrdsville.Ind 
West, D F. Theon, Wash 



COMPANY F. 



Ainsworth, J E, .307 Merchants 

Nat'l B'k B"g, Omaha, Neb 
Bremner, John, Yankton, S D 
Brown, Eugene, Brush Creek Iowa 
Coolidge, F W, Sho Shone, Idaho 
Dunham, Abner, Manchester Iowa 
Eld ridge, J E, Stark, Kansas 
Eaton. John J, Edgewood, Iowa 
Girton, Joseph S, Hazelton Iowa 
Gift, J W, 900 Main St, Peoria. Hi 
Halfhill, Josiah, Wood Center, la 
Kaltenbach, Sam'l, Manchester, la 
Kent, George, Oelwein. la 
Kirchner, Mike 

Lee, John F,Council Grove, Kan R 
Mackey, K F, Maynard, Iowa 
McKee, T R, Room 102 Boston 

Bl'k, Denver, Col 
Mann, Wm W, Ranelsburg, 

Nebraska, R 
Nelson, T C, Hazelton, Iowa 
Preston, H M, Ft. Dodge, Iowa 
Peasley, R H, Kansas 
Roe, A J, Burlington, Iowa, dead 



Annis, Gar) W, Lanark, IIllin;»is 
Bucknian. Wm H. Dyersville la 
Correll, Ed. Greelev Iowa 
Coolidge, C L, Central City, Neb 
Dahl, John A. Silver Creek, la, R 
Davison. Wm, Slam, la, R 
Eldridge, R C, Niagara Falls, N Y 
French, S M, l)enver. Col 

Room 102, Boston block 
Goodel, Wm H, Manchester, la 
Grice, A J, Doniphon, Neb 
Hasbrouck,D H.Prairie Cr"k. Ore.R 
Johnson, Isaac, Pleasinton. Kan 
Kaltenbach, LP, Gila Bend, Ariz 
Kaster, Hiram, Manchester, la 
Lee, Jas F, Clay Mills, la 
Mc(rOw;Hi, Tlios, Independence. la 
Manning. A L, Dunlap, la, R 
Manley, R L 

Nelson, W A, llazelton, la 
Olmstead, H, Independence, la 
Potter, Jas W, Fayette, la 
Ralston, Nelson, Canton, S D 
Small, H J F, Chicago. Ill 



COMPANY G. 



C C Tupper, d'd Benton Bar Jan '62 
L DTownsley, River Forest, Cook 
county, 111 
J F Nickerson. d'd in rebel prison 
J E Simpson, Norfolk, Neb 
A A Burdick, killed at Tupelo 
A E Anderson, Decorah, Irwa 
O C Thorson, d'd at Eldorado, la 
R A Gibson, died U S service 
J H Womeldorf, Neligh, Neb R 
Anderson, A, Albert Lea, Minn 
Anderson, A M, d'd wounds rec'd 

Corinth 



G O Hanson, died at Decorah 

W L Winsor, Clinton. Mo 

T Steen, died at Omaha 

A W Erit, died in service 

J O Johnson, Hesper. Iowa 

N B Burdick, died at Decorah 

R Hard 

G W Sharp, Fargo, Dakota, R 

Andrus, E V, Decorah, Iowa, dead 

Aker, D O. Ilidgeway, Iowa 

Anderson, Peter 

Anderson. E ' 

Ballard. Strawder 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



55 



Brown, J H, died at Decorah 

Bowers, A, died in Ohio 

Clarlf, J M 

Cutlip, J 

Coon, C A, Sabinal, Texas 



Crane, John 

Crowell, J M 

Connolly, C, d'd at Somerville, Mass 

Christopherson, C, Ilartland, Minn 

Dunn, Yan R, Dewitt, Nebraska 



Carey, A A, died at Castalia, Iowa Engbertson, E, Aastad, Minn 
Davis, N J, Berrian Springs, Mich Eastonson, G. d'd at Mound City, la 
Ellsworth, W D, d'd Benton Bar- Fladmark, S M M 

racks Green, L D 



Fuller, A vS, Sioux Falls, S Dak 
Fuller, A, " " 

Gorhamer, O H, d'd St Louis, '63 
Gilbert, L, died at Keokuk 
Groves, A H, Decorah, Iowa 
Hulverson, A, " " 

Hall, Giles 

Houge. G A, Albert Lea. Minn 
Hanson, Hans, Lake Park, Minn 
Hanson, Halver, Sheldon, Dak 
Jenson, vi, d'd Sept "63 in Miss 
Johnson, A, d'd Greensville, La, "65 
Johnson, N O 
Kirkland. G W, Freport, Iowa 



Gilbertson, O, Gilchrist, Minn 

Gulbranson, A, Rothsay, Minn 

Honson, Klaus 

Hanson, Ole 

Hall, Austin, d'd at St. Louis, '63 

Helgerson. G, d'd at Nashville. "64 

Harris, F W, 

Hand. Andrew .1, 

Johnson, HE, Evansville, Minn 

Jr)hnson, Henrv, 1st, d'd Hunts- 

ville, 62 

Johnsftn, Henrv, 2d, d'd Huntsville, 

62 



Larson, Hover, d'd Savannah, Ten Kittleson, C B, Norway Lake, Minn 
Larson, John, Lacqui Parle, Minn Kittleson, G 



Manson, J 

Montgomen', Wm V 

Mad inn, D L 

Maloney, J, died in field 

Miller, S, Yoyaima Bay, Oregon 

McCabe, C, Sherburne, Minn 

Nass. G H, Woodside, Iowa 

Oleson, O 

Oleson, O G, killed at Shiloh 

Oleson, J, died at Thoton. Iowa 



Larson, Peter 

Low, Lewis L 

McCallev, P, died at Ilcsper 

McLoud, S 

Miller, O D, Stuart. Neb, dead 

Meyer, C 

Meader, M E, Hesper. Iowa 

Moe, Peter, Springfield, Minn 

Nelson. Swen 

Oleson, E 



Pollock,Jos,must'dout at Selma"65 Oleson. Ammon, died at Memphis 



Pierce. Fletcher 



Oleson, A H. Egge, S D 



Romberg. L O, d"d at Chewalla "64 Palmer. R. lives in Nebraska 

Peterson, N, d'd Camp Woodss. "63 



Ricker, J, died at Savannah, '62 
Raucha, Fred, Skidmoie. Mo 
Smith, I K, Barabfx), Wis. R 
Simmons, R, Lake Park, Minn 
Staples, C J, d"d at Fraiikville, la 
Steen, John, Wahoo, Neb 
Steen, Henry lielgrade. Neb 



Raucha, Ed 

Rocksvold, O P. Thoton, Iowa 

Ryerson. F. Ashby. Minn 

Skinner, C, d"d '63, steamer Cresent 

Skinner. F, Forest City, R 

vSimmison. Nels 

Severson, Nels 



Smitli, G M, died at Decorah lowaStalim, Lars L, Sioux City. Iowa 
Sernson. S A, killed at Tupelo, "64 Simmons, John. Flandrcau, S I) 



Tinke, J 

Tliompson, A K 

Taylor. W H H 

Thompson, J B. Speilville. Iowa 

Wriglit, C F 

Wheeler, Horace, Algona, Iowa 

Wait. W. Nasliua. Iowa. R 

Wold, L T, d'd at Yicksburg. '63 

West, S, Red Cloud. Neb 



Slattery. Tliomas 

Thompson, T. Lincoln Center. Kan 

Torgenston. M, d'd "65 at 

Montgomery 
Tobiason, Andrew, Windom, Minn 
Thoryson, Andrew. Crastad, Minn 
Mrs. .lennie Burdick St\irdevant. 

Spring Valley. Minn 
Wiley, Wm, died at St. Louis. "63 



56 



FOURTH REUNION OF THE 



COMPANY H. 



Atkinson, \V L (^ Omaha, Neb 
Brown, Tom, Jowol (^ity, Kansas, R 
Becket, Ed, Dubuque, Iowa 
Currie, John (i, Butte City, Mon. R 
("lark, B A, Colosburfi, Iowa 
Cox, W H, Blaine, Iowa 
Evans, James, Dubuque, Iowa 
Fisliel, S K, Ft McGinnis, Mon 
Franks, Joseph, Lamont, Iowa 
Grimes, R M, Kearney Nob 
Gosting, Alfred G, Strawberry Pt, Iowa 
Hamblin, R E, Arcadia, Ohio 
Hamlin, F M, Iowa Falls, Iowa 
Jones, David, Monona, Iowa 
Kuhnes, J C, Manning, Iov;a, R 
Light, Robt, Tildcn, Neb 
Langslou, Aaron I, transferred from 



Briggs, U I, Marcus, Iowa 

Benedict, R W, Blackhawk, S D 

Benedict, Jolin W, Lexington, Neb 

Crist, John W, Cejitral City, Dak 

Crosby, J M, Yankton, S D 

Duncan, N E, Custom House, Kansas City, 

Fishol, S C. Iowa Falls, Iowa 

Fisliel. Robert W, Greeley, Iowa 

Fleanikon, J B, Battle Creek, Neb 

(iilmore, A C, Indianapolis, lud— dead 

Horner, (ieo, Dubuque, Iowa 

Henry, Philip, Greeley, Iowa 

Jackson, S M, Lincoln, Neb, R 

King, \Vilst)ii, Emerick, Neb 

Knee, Samuel G, Colesburg, Iowa 

Light, Joseph A, Norfolk, Neb 

Mason, John S, Worthington, Iowa 



Co D, 27th la to Co D, 12th la Moroland, C D W, Earlville, Iowa 



McConnell, Alex S, Hopkinton, Iowa 
Naumau, Geo, North Platte, Neb 
Royse, Wm, Atlantic, Iowa, R 
Shorter, James, Shell Rock. Iowa 
Sloan, S B, Greeley, Iowa 
Winch, Edward, Arena, Wis 
Ward, John W, Burlington, Iowa 
Struthers, Craig, Neb 

COMPANY I 



McCune, W H, Ruthven, Iowa 
Playter, H J, Washington, D C, 1921 

6th St N W 
Smith, Thomas, Turkey River Iowa 
Shorter, Wm, Shell Rock, Iowa 
Trumble, Jamis, ManchesteJ, Iowa 
Wisegarber, Wm, O'Neil City, Neb 
Van Anda, Johu N, Fremont, Neb 



Roster of survivors of Co. I, 12th Iowa V. V. Infantry, corrected by Judge McCallum, 
Sibley, Iowa. 



Austin, N. E. Andrew, Iowa 
Allen, Eugene, C'edar Rapids, Iowa 
Austin, Marion, Staplehurst, Neb. 
Brintner, Wm. Brayton, Iowa 
Brown, J. Unknown 

Butters, John F. Sioux (^ity Iowa 
Buchanan, James, Tama, Iowa, R 
Belknap, Albert, Scribner, Neb., R 
Benhka, Frank, Guttonberg, Iowa 
Campbell, E. B. Armstrong Grove, Iowa 
Campbell, Thos. Humboldt, Iowa 
Cobb, Edgar C. Keokuk, Iowa 
Cobb, Wm. A. Walla Walla, Wash, 
(^oates, J. W. Talcott, S. D. 
Crane 1. K. Maquoketa, Iowa 
Davenport, A. G. Superior, Neb. 
Devine, John, Columbus, Ohio 

Care Arcade Hotel 
Dupray, Wm. H. Sioux City, Iowa 
Eddie, Thomas C. Salina. Kansas, R 
Fry, Wm. L. Scranton, Iowa 
Goodnow, M. B. Ord, Neb. 
Hatfield, Aug. Jersey City, N. J. 
Harding, James, Baldwin, Iowa 
Hendricks, Wm, Winterset, Iowa 
Jenkins, Alonzo, not known. 
Johnson, Hans, not known. 



Nagle, M D. Dubuque, Iowa 
Nims, Weed, Maquoketa, Iowa 
O'Niel, Andrew, not known. 
Palmer, A L, Seattle, Wash. 
Paup, David, Sac City, Iowa 
Paup, Seth, not known. 
Perkins, J H, Seattle, Wash. 
Pasecli, Lorenso, Postville, Iowa 
Ray, Johu S, Naponee, Neb. 
Reardon, Jolin, not known. 
Rolf, Marion, Maquoketa, Iowa 
Scheopf, John, died Oct. 24. ISSt at Marys- 
ville Kansas 
Swank, John, Muscatine, Iowa 
Sumbardo, (' L, St. Paul, Minn. 
Starbuek, Wm, Huffman, Iowa 
Smith. Henry, Maquoketa, Iowa 

Schmidt, John, not known. 

Sherburn, Dan, died at Selma Ala. 1865. 

1st Lout. Thompson, Jas L, Franklin, Iowa 

Teskey, George, Ellwood, Iowa 

Van Hook, Samuel, not known. 

Van Duzeo, E M (Maj.), St. Paul, Minn. 

Wells, ("has A, Sabula, Iowa 

Wilsau, T, Maquoketa, Iowa 

Wilson, .7 F, Fulton, Iowa 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



Keniiody, S L, Codar Rapids, Iowa 
Kohlor, Will. Dubuque, Iowa 
Kerns, Peter, Reubens, Kansas 
Lewis, Lewis, Home (Mty, Minn. 
Lewis, Peter, Lund, Wis. 
Markliam, W H, Hawkeye, Kau 
McKinley, Maquoketa, Iowa 
McCaiTon, W F, Athens, Tenn. 
McCallum, D D, Sibley, Iowa 
McDermont, Mike, Epwortli, Iowa 



Williams. S, Atlantic, Iowa 
Williams, Sidney, (\)lfax, 111. 
Wititersteen, Henry, Monmoutli, 111.. 

(I'd '84 of disease contracted in Rebel pris. 
Weavines.5. Mik?, not kn'^)wa. 



Wood, Joel, not known. 

Yeley, George, Clinton, Iowa 

Z3dik^r, Jas F (Capt), Lincoln, Neb, 

care State Journal. 

COMPANY K. 



Brooks, John 

Brown, J J, Bloominsrtoii, Neb 

Billings, Abram, Luzern, N Y 

Barden, Henry A, 

Beckner, .J M, (Miarles City, Iowa 

Bugbey, S M, 1012 oth St. North 

Minneapolis 
Church, P, Arborville, Neb 
Deutsher, Albert, Nat. Home, Oliio 
Freeman, Richard, Spencer, Ohio 
Gilchrist, J N. Durham, Iowa 
Keith, W B, Precept, Nebraska 
Merriam, H (', Nugent, Iowa 
Mathis. W R, Omaha, Neb 
Morgan, J B, Davenport, Iowa 
Mosher, Alvin 

McConnell, Alex S, Hopkinton, Iowa 
Myers, Joseph A — dead 
Robinson, Alouzo, Albion Neb, R 
WiUard, Porter H, Hopkinton, Iowa 

NOTE :— Comrades whose names a 
returned from post office given. 



Blood, George W 

Billing.s, ("has D, Bloomington, Nob 
Blanchard, Tiios, Le Mar, Kansas 
Baldwin. Newton, .A.da, Kansas 
Blauchard. Ira D, Crookston, Minn 
Davis, W N, Des Moines, Iowa 

Minn Dolley, Godfrey, Hoi)kinton, Iowa 
Ellison, W H, St. Edwards, Neb 
Fuller, O T, W3b;t?r Grovs, Mo 
Horn, Samuel, Colesburg, Iowa 
Kemp, Wm, Kirwin, Kansas 
Merriam, C E, Hopkinton, Iowa 
Mathis, E R, Omaha, Neb 
Morehouse, P J, Masonville, Iowa 
Morgan, Wm B, Bloomington, Neb 
Mickey, Isaac, Waukon, Iowa 
Phillips, C E, Blair, Neb— dead 
Webb, Laurence, Cedar Rapids, Iowa 
Waldrofif, Henry, La Porte (^ity, Iowa. 
Young, AS, Nashua, Iowa 

re followed by the letter ''R" have had their mail 



(iO FOUHTII PiELINlON OF THE 



Attention, Comtrades! 



It is desirable that all changes of post office address 
and all deaths of members of the regiment be reported 
to the secretary promptly by any comrade having knowl- 
edge of the same, for nse in our next reunion and in 
compiling the next roster. 

J. E. SIMPSON, Secretary, 
Sept. 24th, 1892. Norfolk, Neb. 



FIFTH REUNION 



-OF THE- 



TWELFTH IOWA 



VETERAN VOLUNTEER INFANTRV. 



-HELD AT- 



SIOUX CITY, IOWA, 



OCTOBER lo, ii,%2, i894f^ „ 



NORFOLK, NEB. 

Press of The Daily News. 

1994. 



Attention, Comi^ades ! 



It has beeu determined that we will send a copy of the proceedings of our 
last reunion to each surviving comrade whose address we have. And we hope 
that those who have not already paid membership fees or dues, will remit said 
dues of one dollar, or send twenty-five cents, the cost of said pamphlet, to the 
undex'signed, treasurer of the association, at Manchester, Iowa. All who 
signed our by-laws and became members of our association, whose names ap- 
pear on page — of this book, are entitled to a copy free of charge. 

We are anxious tliat all who can will become members -of our society, and 
if you will send one dollar to the treasurer and direct him to do so, he will 
inscribe your name on the roll making you a member, and you will be en- 
titled to this book without additional cost. Unless this is done we hope you 
will send the 25 cents. 

Comrades, let us not foi-get each other. Help a little in the good work. 
If you know of any comrade who served in our regiment whose name does 
not appear on our book, or whose address is changed, be kind enough to send 
his name and address to Abner Dunham, Secretary, Manchester, Iowa. 
By order of Executive Comittee. 

E. W. TIRRILL, Treasurer, 

Manchester, Iowa. 



FIFTH REUNION 



-OF THE- 



TWELFTH IOWA 

Veteran Volanteep Infantry, 



— HP]LD AT 



SIOUX CITY, IOWA, 



OCTOBER ,o, ,,, ,2, ,894. 



NORFOLK, NEB. 

Press of The Daily News 

1894. 



FlKTll REINION OF THF 



Yes, again we see the forms and bear the voices of those who finished 
life's battles and went home long yeais ago; but I am wandering in the past. 

In the living present I see before me men that have traveled many weary 
miles to attend the Reunion of the Veterans of the gallant Twelfth Iowa In- 
fantry. Year by year the ranks are thinning out, but the members that 
remain continue to close up and move forward to meet the assaults of Fatlier 
Time, and the reunions are more highly prized as the years go by. A few 
years more and this organization must become a thing of the past. 

Among those who are permitted to attend this meeting, I note many men 
of honored name, men who have won fame on the bloodj' fields of war and 
on the great battlefield of life. 

My friends, the people of Sioux City bid you a most hearty welcome. 
They have a warm place in their hearts for the veterans who saved the 
Union. Your comrades of this city who bore an honorable part in the sarue 
great conflict from 1861 to 1865, extend to you a comrade's welcome, and you 
very well know what that implies. It shall be our pleasure to make your stay 
pleasant and profitable. We owe the Twelfth Iowa a debt of gratitude for 
their liberal assistance, both in money and service, at the time the great flood 
swept down upon us a few years since while they were in session in this 
city. 

Even the banquet feast was given up to feed the sufferers. Deeds like 
that sluiU ever live. 

Repre.'^euting the city government, I tender you the utmost freedom of 
the city with all that goes to enhance your pleasure. In fact we are aware 
that the city is besieged by a veteran army and we surrender uncondiricmally 
and cast ourselves upon the mercy of our captors, but before you shall have 
completed the campaign upon which yon have now entered, we shall endeavor 
to outflank you in a manner that will convince you that we have a wide- 
awake, progressive people and comrades as true as ever entered the ranks, and 
that have proven themselves true soldiers in the business of life and eflicient 
at a reunion, camp fire, banquet or any other place that a veteran ouglit to 
be found. 

We have institnticms in our city which we point to with some degree of 
pride and possibly you may find some of them of iutetest to you. Have a 
good time, such as old soldiers know how to have. Ask any comrade or citi- 
zen to assist you and you will find them both willing and competent. I hope 
this reunion will prove so enjoyable that you will ever look back to it as a 
very bright spot in the journey of life. 

One by one we are dropping from the ranks; doubtless some that are here 
todaj' will fail to respond to roll call at the next reunion of the Twelfth Iowa, 
but will have answered to the roll call of the Great Commander of earth and 
heaven and fallen into line with comrades long since mustered out by the 
shafts of the enemj'. Well, soon we shall all be over there and our earthly 
cares and business' will have passed into other and younger hands; but let us 
fight our battles faithfully and manfully, living true to our God, our fellow 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



men and ourselves, and then we shall have a joyful reunion at the grand 
review on heaven's eternal camping ground. 

In the absence of Major Reed, president, Comrade Weaver, vice-president, 
introduced Comrade R. W. Tirrill of Manchester, Iowa, who, when 
the applause that followed Mayor Fletcher's remarks had ceased, 
took the floor and responded in a beautiful address. After thank- 
ing the people of Sioux City for the hospitality extended to 
the old comrades assembled he paid a beautiful and impressive tribute 
to the friendship which had existed between them during the long time 
since they had first met in battle to defend the stars and stripes. 
There were many of the old comrades whose lips quivered and whose handker- 
chiefs were used freely to wipe away the tears when Mr. Tirrill reminded 
them of those who had fought side by side with them and who gave up their 
lives on the field of battle for the love of their country. 

Mr. Tirrill's speech was followed by hearty applause. 

J. N. Weaver and J. E. Simpson also made short addresses, after which 
the meeting adjourned to 7:30 o'clock. 

At the close of Comrade Tirrill's response. Comrade W^eaver read the fol- 
lowing telegram from our beloved President: 

Chicago, October 9th, 1894. 
Hon. John N. Weaver: — 

Notice of my father's death just received. I cannot come. 

D. W. REED. 

And Comrade Simp.'^on read the following letter: 

Chicago, October 9th, 1894. 
Friend Simpson: — 

In your last letter you remind me that I had said that nothing but sick- 
ness or death should keep me awaj" from this reunion. I little thought when 
I said that that it would be just that alternative which would keep me away. 

This morning when I came to the office all ready to take the train for 
Sioux City I found a letter awaiting me saying that father was very sick. I 
delayed one train and directed rny sister to wire me any changes. At 2 
o'clock the sad words came "Father is dead." I go at once to Lansing where 
he died. You understand the matter fully and must explain to the boys how 
I desired to meet them, again. 

I enclose a few memoraiidas I had made in regard to history, including 
an estimate for printing. Do as you think best with it. I have Regimental 
part completed and think it would be of interest, but the times are hard for 
its publication. Perhaps a committee to devise ways and means would be 
wall. Hill I reached SiCAx City I would have had manuscript with me. 

\. D. W. REED. 

And then bore testimony of the high personal standing and integrity of 
Father Reed, who he had known since ISOfi. On motion of Comrade Andrews 



FIFTH KEUiNlUJS OF TH F 



that a message of condolence and love be sent to Comrade Reed, the following 
was sent: 

Major D. W. Reed, Waukon, Iowa: — 

The Twelfth Iowa sends love and sympathy to you and yours. 

SIMPSON, 
TIRKILL, 
STBEN, 
Committee. 
Since tlien tlie following lettt)r was received from Comrade Reed: 

Chicago, November 1st, 1894. 
My Dear Simpson: — 

Yotirs of the 30th ult. just received. The very kind and sympathetic tel- 
egram from the Twelfth was received at Waukon, as we returned from the 
cemetery after laying father away in his final re.'iting place beside mother. 
I should have been glad to acknowledge its receipts and to have told the boys 
how highly I appreciated their kind and thoughtful remembrance of me at 
such a time, but as it was too late to answer then and reach tliein altogether 
I must tell them when I see them together again, which I hope to do in 1896. 

I received from you three niimbers of Sioux City, Journal, October 4th, 
5th and 6th, but no paper since nor anything concerning tlie reunion, except 
a few words with French, who is now An the city. Am very glad to know- 
that you had such a pleasant meeting. French says the best of all the re- 
unions, so I may congratulate you on its success. 

The following message ou motion was sent: 

Major S. D. Brodtbeck, 113 South Broadway, Los Angeles, Cal. :— 
The old Twelfth Iowa in reunion sexid love and greetings to you. 

SIMPSON, 
TIRRILL, 
STEEN,' 
('ommittee. 

On the return home of Comrade Simpson he found a dela3-ed express 
package, sent to. the Regiment, containing a i^hotograph of the dear old Ma- 
jor in full uniform, as we remember him at Camp Union, Dubuque, 1861. 
Also a beautiful shield— red, white and blue — the work of his own hands. 
These will be sent to Secretary Dunham for our next reunion. And ^vit]i tha 
package came this letter: 

Los Angeles, Cal, Oct. 2nd, 1894. 
My Dear Comrades: — 

On looking over my papers lately I found a daguerreotype, taken at Camp 
Union, Dubuque, in fall of 1861. It vividly brought back to me many scenes 
and faces I know are gone, are no more on this earth, and all others as well as 
mine, bear the imprint of 33 additional years. 

Believing that it may give my comrades of tlie old Twelfth a pleasing 
reminiscence of their first acquaintance with me and their first experience of 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



camp life, I herewith sen'! you a copy of said daguerreotype. I regret that?»I 
cauuot meet you personally this time. My love and regards to you all. 

Sincerely your comrade, 

S. D. BRODTBECK. 

However much we may regret the receipt of these tokens of love and 
memory in time for our reunion, yet the circumstances goes to show the love 
we have and thoughtful care for each other so marked among the survivors 
of the old Twelfth. The dear old Major away otf on the distant shores of the 
Pacific, having only had the regular formal notice sent to him of our reunion, 
had us in mind; while we in reunion on the banks of the Missouri, were 
thinking of him and sending him a message of love. God bless him, was the 
prayer of every comrade present. 

On motion of some thoughtful comrade the notes kei)t at the time fail to 
show by who a message was sent as follows: 

To the Thirty-fifth Iowa Muscatine, Iowa, in Reunion Assembled: — 

The Twelfth Iowa in reunion sends greetings. 

SIMPSON, 
TIRRILL, 
STEEN, 
Coiumittee. 

To which the following response was received: 

Muscatine, Iowa, October 11, 1894. 
To Secretary Twelfth Iowa Infantry: 

The Thirty-fifth Iowa Infantry in reunion assembled at Muscatine returns 
greeting of Tv^elfth Iowa Infantry. 

R. D. BODMAN, 
• . Secretary. 

Major Read in his letter speaks of certain rough notes and memorandum 
he eucloses. They are inserted here for the information of comrades who 
will answer theuj by letter to Reed. A good deal of information on these 
subjcts was drawn out in the informal talk and discussion that took place, in 
which Comrades McCabe, Butters, Fuller, Meader and Briggs and others 
took part. 

Inquire — 

Who was on right flank of the Regiment on the march from Pontotoc to 
Tuple July 13th?— was captured and e.scaped. 

Name of steamboat to which Regiment was transferi'ed from the Minne- 
haha, while on way home on Veteran furlough? Did a boat convey Regiment 
to Davenport? 

There were captured at Jackson, Miss., July 11, '63, Q. M. Morrisey, 
Corpls.Cook, Co. E; Isted. Co. B; Comstock, Co. C; Coolredge, Co. F; Briggs 
Co. H; Thos. Smith, Co. H. Reports ajl say: "Q. M. and seven men." 
Who was the other fellow? 

These will be found in the appropriate place in other proceedings. 



10 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

• Comrade Van Anda reported the death of Comrade Gillman about three 
years ago, also the deaths of Comrades Huut and Hammond. Comrade An- 
derson made some reiaarks on the cause of the division of the Twelfth Iowa 
on the road from Pontotock to Tupelo. Comrade Batters explained differ- 
eiicf! of opinion. 

On motion a business meeting was called for first thing after dinner to- 
morrow. Motion to adjourn until 9 o'clock a. m., the 11th. 

Letters were then read from Comrades Williams, Zediker, Barr, Hanseij, 
Orannis, Kent, Millett, Kirkland. Cook, Shoemaker. Morgan, Wisegarber, 
Duncan, Dsvine, Hartshorn, Clarkson, Blanchard, Perry, Farpenning, John- 
son, Van Eman, Koltenbach, Mrs. Crane and Mrs. Petfitt. On motion of 
(Jomrade Fuller that our programme for tomorrow Ije to call the roll from Co. 
A on, and that each comrade's wife or child present be requested to resjKtnd 
in five minute speeches, sing a song, or tell a story, or be put out of the room, 
carried. Motion to adjourn. 

Evening session opened with song, "We are Coming Father Abraham," 
led by Comrade P^ldridge with Mi.ss Weaver at the piano. Mr. Hunt sang, 
"The Drummer Boy of Shiloh, "that brought the applause of those present. 
Then came the sad duty of reading the death notices of comrades since our 
last reunion. 

On meetmg the morning of the 11th Comrade Weaver at 9:30 called the re- 
union to order and the reading of the obituary notices of deceased comrades 
that appear eLsewhere in this report, and the r<^ading of letters fro.n absent 
comrades was continued. Love feast began and was engaged in by all, being 
one of the marked features of oar last two reunions, all present being convul.sed 
with laughter at some well timed story; and again melted to tears at the recital 
of some sad scene or striking incident. On the arrival of Comrade D. B. Henderson 
wlio was received w ith cheers and tokens of delight on every hand, a fifteen min- 
ute recess was had to shako hands and rejoice together over this happy meet- 
ing. During a greater part of the forenoon Comrade Henderson kept the old sold- 
iers in gowl humor by telling some of his comical war stories. He was reqaested 
to speak, and responded with a short but eloquent speech. He was heartily 
applauded and the comrades were so taken with his words that he was 
scarcely allowed to conclude. Comrade S. G. Knee read with due and .solemn 
care and emphasis, as if at the front of the regiment he so ably commanded, 
the following order: 

Special Orders , Head-quarters Dist. West Tenn., 

and 3d seperate Brigade Df^p't oi Tenn. 
No. 17. ^ Memphis. Tenn. Jannarj' 18th. 1806. 

5. Quartermaster property to the valuue of S(!ven Hundred and Twenty 
(720.00) Dollars, for which Captain (J. F. M. Norcross, A. Q. M., is respons- 
ible, having been appropriated and used by men of the 12th Iowa Veteran 
Volnntef;! Infantry without anthoritj-. it is hereby ordered that the amonnt 
Ix; assessed upon the officers and rncn of sjiid rfgiiiM^nt :ind c:h;irc'cd ;ii.':iinsr 
them upon the final Pay Rolls. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 11 

Brevet Lieutenant Colonel Knee is charged with the execution of this 
order. 

By Order of Brevet Major General J. E. Smith. 

WM. W. M. CAMMON, 
Captain & A. A. G. 
Comrade Knee explained that, believing the order to be unjust and in 
error, he pocketed the same and had kept it all these long years, and now 
presented it for the consideration of the Regiment. On motion the thanks 
of tlie Regiment were returned to Comrade Knee for pocketing this order for 
so long a time and the Quarter Master General requested to go to the D — 
for his bill. On motion adjourned to 2 p. m. 

Culled to order by Comrade Weaver at 8:30 p. m. Opened with song, 
"Marching Through Georgia." Reading letter from Comrade Jack Stibbs 
explaining his ab.sence. The business meeting opened by Comrade Simpson 
saying if he could have his way, his advice to the comrades present would be 
to vote to hold the next reunion at Manchester in 1896, and that they make 
choice of Abner Dunham secretary, and R. W. Tirrill treasurer, and gave his 
reason from a business point of view why they should do this. And quoting 
from his first address at the third reunion at Waterloo in 1888, when urging 
the next reunion to be held at Sioux City. He said: "We are simply going 
visiting and then we will come home again, for after our pleasant and happy 
meetings in 1880 and 1884, Manchester will ever remain as a home to the 12th 
Iowa. *' Motion by Comrade Soper that a committee of three be appointed to 
select officers for the association. Carried. Comrades Soper, Van Anda and 
Nagle were appointed as such committee. Motion by Comrade Andrews that 
our next reunion be held at Manchester in 189G, the particular time in said 
year to be decided by the officers of the association. Carried by a unanimous 
vote. Committee reported the following named comrades as officers: Presi- 
dent, H. C. Curtis; vice-president, John Steen; secretary, Abner Dunham; 
treasurer, R. W. Tirrill; executive committee, H. J. Grannis, M.D.OS'agle and' 
J. E. Eldridge. Report approved and said committee declared elected. On 
motion the following comrades were appointed a committee on resolutions: 
Tirrill, Knee and Heaiiy Steen. Comrade Eldridge sang his camp meeting song, 
"I feel Like, I Feel Like, I Feel," being joined by the whole crowd in a gen- 
eral march around and hand shake, and adjourned to 8 p. m. 

The reunion was called to order by Comrade Weaver at 8. p. m. , who 
introduced Comrade Geo. D. Perkins of Sioux City, as chairman of the camp- 
tire, and the following is what the Sioux City Journal said of the affair: 

The feature of the reunion of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry now being held 
in this city was the camptire at the armory last night. It was a typical meet- 
ing of the veterans, and there was that atmosphere of warm, good feeling, 
coraradship, charity, and all which lingers in the memory of suffering, valor 
and deeds of patriotism, such as is only to be found in gatherings of this 
character. The armory was filled, the best people of Sioux City being in 
the audience, and the campfire proved an occasion so pleasant that it will 
long be rememberd by those who participated. 



12 FIFTH ItFFNION OF THE 



About 100 members of the old Twelfth Iowa are iu attendance at this 
renuion, and it is said that Jiot jiiore than 400 of the members of the gallant 
old regiment are still liviug. The attendance, therefore, seems a rema. kable 
one, when it is remembered that the veterans, who as boys and young men 
enlisted in the eastern part of the state, a majority of them iu Dubuque, are 
now scattered all over the country. 

The regimental feeling in the Twelfth was strong during the war, and 
it is strong in the remaining I'egiment now. This was eloquently shown in 
the meeting last evtruing, and war, more than ever to appreciate the bonds of 
comradship which are welded in camp and Held. 

The ladies of the W. R. C were interested visitors. The meeting was 
called to order shortly after 8 o'clock by Comrade J. N. Weaver. Rev. Mare 
Darling, Rev 0. H. Strickland, Rev. H. D. Jenkins,^ Geo. D. PerMns and 
Hon. D. B. Henderson took seats at the right of the president's table. Comrade 
Weaver in a brief speech called upon Geo. D. Perkins to preside over the 
meeting. Mr. Perkins arose and welcomed the comrades of the Twelfth lon'a 
Infantry in substance as follows: 

"Comrades of the old Twelth Iowa: I can assure you that I have in my 
charge the voice of the people of Sioux City to welcome you here and to ex- 
tend to you one and all the hearty wishes of our people. In the present year 
of 1894 you can look to the struggles of the battles you have fought and 
say, as the years are slipping fast away, that you are proud of the fact that 
you are members of the grand old Twelfth Iow;i.. " After paying a tribute to 
to the soldiers Mr. Perkins concluded by calling on the vocal talent of the 
association to sing. 

After the "Battle Hymn of the Republic" had been sung, a letter from 
Maj. Reed was read stating that he was unable to attend the meeting on ac- 
count of the death of hi-i father. Comrade J. E. Simpson responded with a 
brief but eloquent speech in resp'^use to Mr. Perkins, and was greeted with 
applause. 

Rev. Marc W. Dai ling on being introduced said this was not the first time 
that he had been mixed up in a programme of the blue and the gray. He 
remembered some other occasions which were not so pleasant, and when 
it was mentioned to him that he should take rart in such programme he felt 
a shiver run down his spinal column. He was not one of those who believed 
that there is no difference between the blue and the gray, but it was not 
a difference of conviction nor of courage. 

Rev. C. H. Strickland was then introduced as a representative of the 
other side of the controversy. He mentioned the fact of his entering the army 
of northern Virginia early in 18G1 and remained with it until the federal 
armies relieved him in 1865. When he first enlisted he remembered to have 
felt afraid that the federal army would get away before he had a chance to 
get at it, but before the war had progressed far, he changed his mind. He 
contended that the confederate soldiers never had any personal feeling against 
their northern enemies, but were sincere in their beliefs, and showed their 
sincerity on more than twenty-five battle fields. He recalled the circum- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 13 

sfcancRS of his own surrender to the Second Iowa cavalry while that regiment 
was skirmishing down in the south looking for a man named Jeff Davis. 
There are some men down south who still want to fight, but they are men 
who didn't do any fighting the other time. For one, he was thankful that 
the war had ended as it did. 

Rev. H. D. Jenkins spoke • briefly, recalling incidents in connection with 
the war. He remembered a short time ago installing a new minister, and 
there were gathered around the young man at that time sis Presbyterian min- 
isters who were old soldiers. Sometimes in these gatherings he didn't know 
whether he was attending a Grand Army meeting or a meeting of the 
presbytery. 

Col. D. B. Henderson then addressed "the boys" around the imaginary 
campfire with caracteristic eloquence, and with that rare depth of feeling 
which shows the source of the love which his old comi^ades bear for him. 
Col. Henderson most touchingly described his search for the graves of his old 
regiment on the battle field where they fell, and mentioned that when he 
found the grave of his brother Tom it was the first time he had known where 
the poor boy's remains lay. Among other things he said: 

"War is a terrible thing. The reason we were there was not because we 
loved our section best, but because we loved the union. ' ' He had occasion 
not long ago to look up some figures pertaining to the war. From 1861 to 
1865 the number of soldiers who enlisted was exclusive of reinlistments 2,128,- 
948. The number enlisted for three years was 2,037,742. The number 
of officers killed during the war was 4,142, enlisted were 62.916, with a total 
killed 67,058, while 297,058 died of wounds and disease This brings the total 
dead from immediate battle causes to 364,116. The total of enlistments in the 
union army was 2,234.911, the dead 1,054,911, leaving about 1,180,000 still 
living. There is another statement which tells a sad, csad story. The number 
admitted to the hospitals from April, 1861, to June 30, 1866, was 5,825,480, 
and the number of deaths in the confederate prisons was 30,212. Let those 
who sneer at our pension rolls keep that number in their minds. 

"From statistics furnished by the government it is shown that about 
27,000 survivors are lined down every year. Let me implore you that the re- 
unions of the future may be reunions of broad minds and warm hearts. 

"I don't care for war. The causes that led up to it form a problem that 
no human mind, however broad, can solve, and I often feel like the man who 
remarked, in being presented with a pair of twins, that he 'wouldn't take 
$1,000,000 for the ones he had, but that he wouldn't give a 10-cent piece for 
another pair.' " 

Mr. Henderson was glad, however, to see the wounds healing between the 
two great sections and that the men who fought under two flags were now 
uniting under one cause as well as beneath the folds of the stars and stripes. 
He spoke of the hospitality of the confederate soldier, and remarked that in 
recent years he had often been thrown into their society. He did not wish his 
comrades to forget the issues of the war, for they will grow with the passing 
of the ages; but now that the graves have closed and the smoke of battle has 



14 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

cleared away, the old soldier shonld teach his' children tlje rneiiiiing of 
the flag. 

Col. Henderson related an incident of his experience during the last oou- 
gress to show the prejudice of some of the democratic members. He said he 
was astonished to learn one morning that the name of an old Independence, 
Iowa, soldier whom he had appointed as one of«the door keepers of the house, 
had been dropped from the pay rolls. The man had done brilliant service in 
the war, and had become too infirm from maimed limbs and ailments brought 
on from causes begun in the war to work on his farm. Mr. Henderson 
bethought himself of an experiment. He submitted a bill appointing the old 
soldier to the position of assistant doorkeeper of the house. I was no sooner 
read than it was vigorously opposed by an Iowa member who gave as an 
excuse for his antagonism that the republicans should have nothing whatever 
with the appointments. The democratic majority in the hou.se was 43, the 
most of whom were ex-confederates. He went among these urging his claims 
for the union soldier benefit, and despite the opposition of the lowan the bill 
was passed by a majority of eighteen. 

He closed by saying that "the reuaions of the heart will be all the 
sweeter and more beneficial when they are also reunions of tlie mind." 

The old camp fire song known as "I Feel Like" was then introduced, and 
every member of the Twelfth Iowa present "tvirned in" the chorus with a 
will, and there was no doubt that it wa^ sung as only soldiers can. 

Mrs. Mary A. Widner recited a beautiful piece of her own composition 
with a patriotic sentiment running through it. When she had finished many 
a soldier's eye was glistening with as many tears. 

Miss Effie Steen, of Lincoln, was introduced by Comrade Simpson for a 
recitation. "In 'Gl", said Mr. Simpson, "six young Norwegian boys left their 
log cabin in Winneshiek county and went to the war. Three of them are in 
tlieir graves, and this young lady is the daughter of one of them— Theodore 
Steen of Company G, Twelfth Iowa Infantry." 

Miss Steen then recited a sweet poem entitled "The Whistling Regiment. " 
Perhaps it was the efl:'ective work of the elocutionist, or better still, the 
thought of the brave man whose daughter she was; but somehow, as the 
beautiful expressions of the piece were caught by her auditors, there were 
many weeping eyes ere her work was completed. 

Hon H. C. Curtis, of LeMars, made a brief speech. He said, among 
other things, that as he looked along the line of the illustrious men of other 
nations he was prouder that he fought under the old flag of our country. 

Capt. Lathrop made a little talk and the humor of the boys was at once 
awakened to its utmost. He remarked that unless one has seen a anan scared 
in battle he has never seen a real live coward. To back his assertion he told 
about a man who lost no time in getting asyay when a skirmish began, and 
when reproved by his superior officer for his conduct broke down, and 
bawled lustily: "You may talk about flying your flags from the school 
houses and make all the fuss you want about it, but you will never know 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 15 

what a flag means until you see it in the center of an army— a target for the 
shell and shot of the enemy who are bent upon cutting it down." 

C-ieo. D. Perkins said the soldiers had acquired steady habits, and among 
other things that of retiring at a seasonable hour as one of the most com- 
mendable. He then stated that the announcements by Comrade Simpson 
would close the meeting. 

Mr. Simpson said that the meeting today would be held at 9 a. m. as a 
love' feast. Companies H, I and K, as well was the staff of the regiment, are 
yet to hear from. 

When Vice-president John N. Weaver called the lovefeast of the Twelfth 
Iowa Infantry co order yesterday morning, being the closing day of the ses- 
sion, and began by saying that he had been criticised for omitting from 
Thursday night's progamme the prayer by Rev. Dr. Jenkins. "I had rather 
hear Mr. Jenkins talk for five minutes," he said, "than to hear him pray for 
two hours. " 

Then .Comrade Simpson arose and said: "My dear comrades, I cannot 
allow this reunion to close without bearing witness as well as I can, having 
been in a position to know whereof I talk, to the unselfish, unswerving de- 
votion of our comrade, John N. Weaver, who, as our vice president and resi- 
dent officer here, has had to carry the load of the work of ijreparation and 
arranging for our two reunions— the inability of our president to get here 
two years ago on account of the great storm — and now kept away by the 
death of his father, has put on Comrade Weaver the whole load of presiding 
at both of our reunions. His unfailing courtesy, his watchful care, his unre- 
mitting work, early and late, never flagging or halting, the weary miles of 
walking and hours of anxious care to make our reunions a success, I know 
have been appreciated fully by you one and all. Brought in contact with him 
before and after our meetings here I have learned to love and admire the man 
and bear this most willing testimony to the care and efficiency he has dis- 
chai'ged the duties enforced upon him by yon and in your behalf say to him 
'Well done thou good and faithful servant.' " 

Comrade Weaver responded in a few words saying he was glad to have 
been of service to his comrades towards whom one and all he had the most 
heartfelt love and respect. If any thing he had done had added to their 
pleasure and comfort hn was fully rewarded for any work or labor done by 
him, that these two reunions had been pleasant to him, bright spots in life's 
pathway long to be remembered and treasured by him. Thanking them for 
the honor conferred on him and the kindness and forbearance shown toward 
him. 

Those comrades who were obliged to leave on account of train time were 
requested to stand up so comrades could go around and shake hands and 
say good bye. With many a "God bless you" with tears and hearty hand 
shakes we bade good bye to several comrades. 
■ Then Comrade John Steen arose and said: 
"Mr. President, Ladies and Comrades: 

"I accept the position to which I have been elected and most sincerely 



If) I'llTII REUNION OK 'I'lIK 



tliiiiik you for thin honor aiul confidHnce. As a tributo of respect and gra^i- 
tndo so richly nHtritod, has +)oon paid to our friond and Comrado Judf^o 
Woaviir, our rotirinj^ vicH prosidont, l)y Comrado Sinipsojj. tor tho excellent 
niaiMior ho has at all tinios discharKod thct dnticss of vioo prosifiut of this our 
hc'luvod asHooiation and for tlio succoss of this reunion, I dosiro to niovo a voto 
of tlianks to our rotiriuK acting socnitary, Janies E. Simpson, for his untir- 
\i\ii »!ntir(^y and solf-saorifirdn^f dovotion to tlio host intorost of every member 
of tho (jld Twolfth Iowa and tho splendid success of this enjoyable ^ather- 
in^^. I had the honor as well as pleasure of scsrvinj^ with (.'omrade Simpson 
in tli(! war, and know something of the (cordial warm-hearted nature, and his 
(h^dication to principle, duty and friiMid, how he forf^ot self to serve others. 
I Well remember when company (I was orj^aiii/ed at Decorah, Iowa, in the 
early fall of JSfil, when be mi^lit have ^oiie out with the company' as its cap- 
tain, as its first lieutenant, as its second lieutenant. When the election of 
oni(;ers took place, he, with his usual masnaminity of soul, made every nomi- 
nation from the position of captain down, and himself was satisfied with the 
position of first serj^eant. He was a stx'ict dis(;iplinarian, Ijut just and kind, 
and to no one does company d owe its debt of f^ratitude for l>einj^ able to 
tak(t its proud position amonj^ tiie si)IeMdid (tompuiiies of our maf^nificent re^i- 
m(!'it, njore than to our activ<f, {generous, nobl(» and brave Simpson. 

"Since the war no one of the brave Ijoys of th<» ranimuut, save possibly 
oiKt, hav(i been mf)re hoiKjred, and filled positions of f<reater pul)lic trust than 
he. Having held positions whose hundrcids of thousands, j^ea, millions, of 
dollars of ])ublic funds, [jassed throuf^h his hands and ev(!ry cent properly 
a(5c<mnte<l lor, wet love him and we are K^wl to have him with us todaj\ I 
am phsased to think tiiat at our reunion at Manchester two j'ears heiicci, Ik* 
will bo relieved from all burd(ins as an ofticer in this association and tliat he 
will have an opportunity to visit amonj? his comrades, a pleasure of which he 
has been d(ipriv(id at our last two reunions, owinf? to the active duties de- 
volved u])oM him duriii;,' th(«(» ni(ietin{^s. I now, Mr. President, take ^reat 
pleasurti in movinf,' by a standing' vote tliat the thaiiks of our comrad(w be 
tendered to (lonu'ade Simpson for Ins uniform kindness and courtesy to all, 
foi' his untirinfjf devotion to duty as tl)(i acitiiif,' secnstary of this asso(riation, 
and for the active* part Ik! lias tak(fii in niakin;,' tiiis, our fifth reunion, a de- 
luded sucfiess. " 

Till- motion was secM)n(l<(d l)y Heiny Stcu^n with a stat(MM(t)it that b(i most 
heartily conerurred in ev(!ry word iiis brotiier .loliii iiad said. 

On motion <if ('omrade Tirrill a vote of tluuiks lu! e.vtended to (Vnnradc* 
Simpson, ameniled and accept(ul, that the remarks of (!omrade Stecsii b(^ re- 
duced to writing: a,nd piiblisliod in our pro(H)edinf,'s. Carried by a unanimous 
risiiif^ vote. 

(.'omrade Simpson rc])lied feeliiiKb', 'i"d said what \ui bad done had been 
])rom])ted by ieeliiif^s of lovc^ His voice tnsmbhHl as he spoke and teai's were 
in bis eyes. All the ni(uub((rs of the reKi'"""f' i" fhe room were on th(ur feet 
ill a moiiieiit^ eaj^er to shak<^ the hand of tlmir Ic^Ilow, and many tUvro were 



T\VIOLI''IMI IOWA y. V. INI'AN'niY. 



whoee eyes were moistonei by tears as they received, perhaps. tl)e hist warm 
liaiid olaHp. 

A))()iit tliis tinid a iiuiiibdi' dC (Iio noiiirados woiniiod in bit (,i'i)ulil(!d witli 
what has been callod at our reunions "lump in the throat," and to relieve the 
same notliinj^ haw Ixum found more eflieacnous tlian Oonirade Ehh-id^o's Hon^^, 
"I i\-x'A likd, 1 feel," and a K^Jieral liandHhake all around. 

(Joinrado AndrciWH. speaking of taking an early ti'ain for honn', said ho 
was not so old tliat ho (ioidd not ^a lialf a mih* in an lionr, and Jus train ilid 
not htavo for an hour. His talk was replete witli army ])leasantries. 

(Jol. H. (i. Kurte of Colesburff, who was mustered out a commandiiiK 
ofJiciU' of the rofjimout, said he could not make a speech, but he would f<o 
liomo witli tlie njemory of tlie fifth reunion of tlie Twelfth Iowa in Sioux City 
as tht) pleasantest of his life. Ho closed by re(!itint< James Whitcromb llihiy's 
boautiful i)()em,"My Trip to Wasiiington. " 

Oomrade W. H. McXJune made a short sp()(«;li, i-olatinj^ ancmdotos of 
army life. 

"Bob" Fishel of Greely followed. He said that I'or tlie first tinio in liis 
life he was called by name at the fifth reunion ami his hand slnik(in by mom- 
bers of the ntf^iment wlnnn he did not remctmJjor. He said nobody lovnd his 
associates better tlian ho loved wliat was Icift of the TwoH'tli Iowa, and h(! 
thanked the ollicers for the courtesies shown hini. 

Comrade J. A. Light of Norfolk was (jailed upon. He said lie (iould not 
make a speech, but he intended to meet with the boys (tvery year as lon{< as 
111! lived. 

(!()iiiradi) "Hank" lirij^;<s of Marcus related a funny incidont of tlio war 
and tlieii rHtnrnod to the solier side of tlie sohlior's life, and a lump gathfirod 
in liis throat. He finished by saying lie wislied he could (lontrol his foMings 
so h(i could speak like tlie other boys. 

(Jol. Knee, who was sitting at his elbow, shouted: "A t.iar on a solditir's 
cheek is no disgra<;<i." 

Comradi! Van Anda of Fnitnont followed with a fund of army reminiHcctn- 
(!es. He said his thouglits WfU'e i-Vfv of hisdeai- old (loiiii'udes, the boyh of the 
Twelfth. 

President cdeet H. (I Curtis, of jjoJVlars, came in at this juncture, and 
Vice-])reside,nt Weavfsr relincpiishrid the chair. Upon taking his seat Mr. (lur- 
tis said : 
My (Comrades and Fellow (citizens: — 

I thank you from the bottom of my Jieart for the Jiigh and proud honor 
you have (conferred on me in elecning me presid<mt of this asso«;iation, tliere 
are many of you who are better rjualifi(;d tlian I to serve in this capacity, but 
I assure you I will do all I can t(j serve you faithfully my d<»ar old comrades. 
I would rather be with you and those of your family wliero I can once more, 
after a separation of nearly thirty years, look into your lionest brave factis 
and see the men with whom I fought for one flag and one Union for more 
than four long yeurs, than be wluire (trover is today. At our next retinioii at 



18 FIE'TII REUNION OF TITR 

Manchester two years beuce let ns all who are t*en living be there, and let 
no comrade fail. Aud as to our regimental history which is now ready for 
publication let me say, this should have been done twenty years ago. Let as 
get right at it aud have our deeds of valor plainly printed upon the historic 
press where our children aud our children's children can read it in years to 
come. And for me I have pledged to Comrade Simpson aud Judge Weaver the 
sum of $100 toward the expenses of so doing. Again I thank you for this 
high honor. 

Mrs. J. A. Van Anda made a patriotic little talk nuwing the entire party 
to tears, and her sou J. Albert Van Anda recited some beautiful verses. 

James Crosby, of Yankton, was wheeled to the front in his carriage. He 
said he had a speech all prepared last night, but Comrade Van Anda's snoring 
knocked rhe whole business out of his head. "I keep a hotel at Yankton," he 
said, "and a Twelfth Iowa badge is good for a week's board any time." 

Comrade W. W. Qnivey of Pierce, Neb., stated that this was his first re- 
union, but he did not propose that it should be the last. 

The roll was called down the entire line of the regiment, and army 
speeches were delivered with the feeling which only a soldier can know. 
Each speech was brightened by sallies of wit, and the occasion was one of 
tender good feeling, with sad memories softened by time, aud joy promoted 
by the fellowship of old and dear comrades, with whom eveiy man present 
realized he cannot have many more meetings of this kind. 

Comrade Andrews spoke of the Tupelo raid and the drum he could no 
longer play. Comrades Campbell, Butters aud Dupray spoke well and feel- 
ingly, their remarks bringing smiles and tears. Comrade Goodenow telling 
of sleeping with the body of Comrade Buckner of company A, the first man 
killed'iu battle out of the regiment, and never discovering the fact until the 
next morning. Comrades Kohler and McCallum spoke. 

Comrades Campbell, Butters, Dupray, Goodeuow A I'esolution was 
passed extending the sympathies of every member of the regiment present to 
Comrade McCallum, who was present, but suffering too much pain to make 
more than a few remarks. Several of the comrades present bore testimony 
to the high personal standing and brave loyal service of Comrade Judge Mc- 
Callum. Vice-President Weaver spoke in terms of the highest regard of him. 
So also did Comrade Curtis. Comrades Thompson and McDermott spoke. 
Comrade M. D. Nagle recited that beautiful poem. "Gettysburg." Then 
Comrades Ray, Bituer, Rev. O. C. Butters, son of Comrade Butters, so well 
remembered by comrades present two years ago, for his ringing words of 
burning eloquence, spoke a few words of cheer and love, followed by Com- 
rade Morehouse. 

Mrs. John Steen, Comrade Carriugton and wife, and Comrade Nelson 
followed -with remarks, when it was resolved that it is the wish of the regi- 
ment present that Comrade Nelson be appointed door keeper in the "Celestial 
City." When on motion we adjourned to 3 p. m. 

The afternoon meeting was called to order at 2 p. m., and Temporary 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. V. INFANTRY. 19 



Chairman Weaver introduced Mrs. Hill, widov of Col. H. G. Hill, of the Thirty- 
fifth Iowa,, who wa.s killed at Nashville. Mrs. Hill came forward and all 
the members of the Twelfth shook her hand warmly in turn. 

Comrade Weaver said there was a movement on foot to place the portrait 
of Col. Hill on the soldiers' monument to be erected at Des Moines. On 
motion the following resolution was passed by a unanimous rising vote: 

"Resolved, That it is the earnest wish and request of the survivors of 
the Twelfth Iowa, in reunion here assembled, that the portrait or medallion 
of Sylvester G. Hill, late colonel of the Thirty-Fifth Iowa, who lost his life 
while so gallantly leading our brigade at the battle of Nashville, Tenn., be 
placed upon the Iowa soldiers' monument, to be erected at Des Moines, along 
with other distinguished and deserving ones who so willingly yielded up their 
lives that our country might live." 

It was then resolved that a printed copy of the resolution be forwarded to 
Miss Cora B. Weed, secretary of the Iowa Soldiers Monument association at 
Muscatine. 

Comrade Tirrell paid a glowuig tribute to the late Samuel J. Kirkwood. 
He said the grand old man was well remembered as a brilliant soldier, and 
his cheering words to the solders in the hospitals often made them, in 
thought at least, well and hopeful. 

The following resolution was passed by a standing vote: 
"Resolved, That the comrades of this association remember with pride 
our oM svar governor, Samuel J. Kirkwood, late deceased, whose inspiring 
words on the rostrum, as well as in camp and hospital, dftring the dark days 
of 1861 to 1835 were a banediction to every Iowa soldier, as well as every true 
and loyal he.irt. " 

The committee on resolutions, composed of the following, Henry Steen, S. 
G. Knee and R. W. Terrill, reported the following, which were adopted by a 
standing vote: 

"Resolved, That the thanks of this association are due to Mayor Fletcher, 
the city council, and to Companies H and L, of the Fourth Iowa National 
Guard, for the free use of their neat and commodious hall and reception room 
during our tliree days' session, and especially do we extend our thanks to the 
city of Sioux City for its generous hospitality so kindly and enthusiastically 
extended to us through its able mayor. 

"Resolved, That this association extend its hearty thanks to Hon. Geo. 
D. Perkins for the able and efficient manner in which he presided at our en- 
thusiastic 'camp fire' on Thursday evening, and also do we extend our thanks 
to the Rev. M. W. Darling, sergeant Company K, One Hundred and Ffty- 
fourth New York infantry so ably represeating the 'Blue;' 
to Rev. C. H. Strickland, late captain Company C, Third Georgia battalion, 
so ably and graciously representing the 'Gray ;' also to Rev. H. D. Jenkins 
who so completely welded the link that bound the two comrades heart to 
heart, and in imitation of the spirit of 'our Master' joined in holy wedlock 
the two great factions rent asunder by a question forever buried beneath the 
clash of glittering steel and smoke of battle. 



20 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

"Resolved, That the association appreciates the great effort made by our 
dear comrade aud fellow associate, Col. D. B. Henderson, who, in his crippled 
condition has met with us and with his usual inspiration filled us with en- 
thusiasm and love commensurate with his great heart. We love to think of 
him as he is always called, 'the soldiers' friend,' che defender of his char- 
acter and protector of his rights. We love his cheerful greetings, admire his 
stalwart, .straightforward, manly bearing, and are proiad of his achievements 
in the national congress. 

"Resolvd, That the warm sympathy of every comrade of this association 
is extended to our worthy comrade and efficient president, Maj. D. W. Reed, 
who, by reason of the death of his father, was prevented from meeting with 
us at this wonderfully interesting reunion. 

' ' Resolved, That we extend to the members of the grand army post of 
tliis city our thanks and high appreciation of their valuable service during 
our three daj's' session, such service having contributed materially to our suc- 
cessful reunion. 

"Resolved, That the thanks of this association are due to our worthy and 
able vice-president, John N. Weaver ; our efficient and faithful secretary, 
James E. Simpson, for their untiring efforts and great labor, by them so 
cheerfully i>erformed, in making this reunion a grand success. 

"Resolved, That we extend our hearty thanks to the Sionx City Journal 
and press of the city for the close attention they have given our meetings 
and for the voluntary publication of our proceedings." 

Love feast contiiTued, and Miss Effie Steen, Mrs. Mary A. Simpson, Mrs. 
Judge Weaver aud Miss Weaver made remarks when called upon. Mrs. Col. 
S. Gr. Hill returned thanks to the Twelfth Iowa for their resolution. Com- 
rades Crowhurst and Butters spoke, and Comrade Weaver madf) the sugges- 
tion that hereafter when comrades were notified of the time aud place of re- 
union, they notify the secretary that they are coming. This was adopted. 

James A. Henderson, of Cherokee, made the final speech of the lovefeast. 
He said he was not like the boy who ran away from home to go to the army 
aud then ran away from the army to get home; but it wasn't because he 
didn't want to. Many of us are poor in houses and lands, and many more, 
God knows,, are poor in health ; yet, while we may suffer for want of these 
things, we gave every property owner in the United States a clear title to all 
he has on earth. 

He turned to the humorous side and said that when many sheaves of 
wheat near the battle field were opened a chicken's head fell out. This was 
one of the failings of the boys who were forbidden to forage by their superior 
officer, who at the same time gave them the wink. 

He concluded by saying "There area few people so bankrupt in patriotism 
as to sneer at some of you as paupers, because you draw pensions. You may 
be poor in this world's goods, and poor indeed in health, but you ought to 
feel richer than Croesus, in the thought that you saved millions for others 
and perfected the title to every foot of land witliin the confines of this re- 
public. A few people may belittle your worth now, but all the people of all 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 21 

the ages yet to come will do justice to the men who baptized this land in 
their own blood in the name of liberty and an imperishable union." 

He then said on behalf of Col. Henderson that he regretted being unable to 
attend today and bid them all good bye until the next .reunion. 

Comrade Hayward of Moville didn't attempt to make a speech, but he 
said that if the hereafter were to be won by hard fighting the boys of the 
Twelfth Iowa could push their way clear into the pearly gates. 

Comrade Curtis closed the love feast by saying that the next time the 
Twelfth Iowa held a reunion, and if he were president, he would endeavor 
to have the meeting place so far away from a horse race that no intimation of 
such an affair could reach it. 

Secretary Simpson read letters of regret from A. H. Groves, of Decorah, 
Iowa, and B. Frank Morrow, of Georgetown, Neb., and William L. Hender- 
son, of Cresco. 

The secretary read reports from various members of the regimant who 
had been requested to supply a histoy of each individual compauy, as well as 
the regiment. Assur,ance has been recieved that the work is in faithful 
hands, and an effort will probably be made to issue a book before the next 
reunion. 

President Curtis thought the Twelfth Iowa was behind in the publication 
of its history. Some of the regiments had their record printed twenty years 
ago, and to get it started volunteered to contribute |100 to the work. 

This offer produced some little discussion, and no definite action was 
taken. 

Comrade E. B. Campbell of Company I, and wife came to Sioux City to 
attend this reunion. Soon after her arrival she made a misstep, fell and 
broke her arm. On motion. 

"Resolved, That the heartfelt sympathies of all comrades are hereby 
extended to Comrade Campbell and wife in their affliction, caused by her 
accident, and trust she will have a speedy recovery." 

Comrade French of Denver, closed the meeting with a poem entitled 
"Only One Flag." The veterans were deeply interested, for it touched a 
familiar chord in all their hearts. And right here is the proper place to say 
that much of the interest and success of this reunion is due to Comrade 
French, not only for his music, but the work he did in keeping the notes of 
the proceedings and assisting the officials. Weighed down with sorrow and 
grief at the death of Comrade McKee, brought forth to his mind — by this 
reunion — with unselfish love he devoted himself, early and late, to the inter- 
est of his coiurades. 

Secretary Simpson read a poem composed by Mrs. Abner Dunham, of 
Manchester, dedicated "To the Boys of the Twelfth Iowa." It was full of 
pretty sentiment, and was enthusiastically received. 

And so the meeting closed. The "good bys" and "God bless you" weie 
tearfully said, and the warm clasp of the hand told better than words of the 
love that the -fragment of the Twelfth Iowa bear each other. 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



The following is the account of oar reunion as written by Comrade Nagle 
for the Dubuque Daily Times, October 14, 1894: 

The reunion of the Twelfth Iowa, which was held at Sioux City this 
week, is a thing of the past — only a pleasant memory. It was a complete 
success in all respects, and to make it such the people of Sioux City contrib- 
uted their part in an unstinted manner. The address of welcome by Mayor Pierce 
was full of cordiality and was heartily appreciated by the vets. The response by 
Comrade Tirrill, of Manchester, was in keeping with his well known reputa- 
ion as an orator and polished speaker, and it was evident that in his selection 
for the response no mistake was made. Judge J. N. Weaver of Sioux Cit5% 
who was a member of Company D, of the Twelfth, and vice-president of the 
association, presided in the absence of Major Reed, the president, the death 
of whose father on the day set for the opening of the reunion, prevented his 
attendance. Judge Weaver delivered a short but highly appropriate address 
to to the veterans, welcoming them to Sioux City and promising them all the 
attention possilile. Time has silvered his locks, but the fire of other days 
was in his eye as he stood face to face with he men who had gone through 
scenes of strife and blood with him thirty-three years ago. The reports of the 
officers and routine business occupied most of the forenoon, and the great- 
er part of Wednesday afternoon was devoted to miscellaneous business. The 
number registered was ninety-eight, and several of these were accompanied 
by their wives and children. 

At the evening session the names of those who had passed over to tlie 
last bivouac were read by a representative of the respective companies and 
each announcement was followed by eulogistic remarks. A solemn stillness 
pervaded the hall during the performance of this sad duty, and many were 
the gray -haired veterans who wiped away a tear. Of the little band of sur- 
\avors now constituting Company I, death stilled the hearts of two — W. H. 
Markham and I. K. Crane — two men who left the service with an unblem- 
ished record. In all about fifteen had died since the last reunion at Waterloo, 
and among these was Comrade Hoerner, of this city, who was a member of 
Company H. Comrade Van Auda, of Nebraska, who served with him, paid 
a glowing tribute to his memory. Each speaker did likewise for the departed 
vetei'an whose demise he auounced ; and thus simple but eloquent tribute was 
paid by those who loved them, to those who went out in their j-oung manhood 
and fought and died for their country. 

Col. Henderson arrived Thursday morning, and an hour later was escort-, 
ed into the Armory hall, where the veterans were in session. The boys were 
having a little "experience meeting" at the time, when a "step" different 
from that which had heretofore been heai-d in the hall was heard and at- 
tracted general attention. On catching sight of the new-corn mer, Col. Simp- 
soh cried out, "Boys, there comes Col. Henderson!" All heads were turned 
towarc\ the door, and just as the colonel was about to enter the hall the vet- 
erans rose en masse and gave such cheers and tigers as had never before been 
heard in Sioux City from the same number of men. The cheering continued 
for fully three minutes, during which time the colonel stood in the large 
doorway, leaning on his crutches, while down his cheeks came the diamonds 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. V. INFANTRY. 23 

of love sparkling a response to the ovation of the men who idolize him. It 
was a picture that could not be transferred to canvas because no artist could 
do it justice. The colonel was then escorted to a seat beside the presiding 
officer, and after the lumps had left his throat he spoke to the boys for about 
an hour. He spoke of the gallant record made by the Twelfth. His remarks 
were in a conversational tone, and as he proceeded he referred to many things 
in connection with the history of the regiment. At times the boys would feel 
tears welling up in their eyes, and again they would be cheering as tliough 
they were in the charge. The colonel said he knew the veterans would never 
forget what the preserving the nation meant, and he also knew that they 
would not fail to teach their children how to be patriotic and liberty-loving 
men and women. He urged that all the veterans who had wives and children 
should bring them to the next reunion to be held at Manchester, which was 
the "mother of the Twelfth." 

The afternoon was devoted to expeionce meeting, which was highy in- 
teresting. 

The principal event of the reunion was the campfire Thursday evening. 
The hall was crowded to its utmots capacity and the number present could 
not have been less than 2,000, including all the Dubuquers who had come to 
attend the races. Among these were Sheriff Phillips, Alphonso Matthews, 
William O'Hern, M. J. Mulgrew, Tom McNear )iad Ollie Rhomberg. They 
knew that the colonel was to be the principal speaker and they let other ap- 
pointments go in order to be present and hear their distinguished fellow 
townsman. ' The program for the evening was a grand one. It included an 
address of welcome by Congressman Geoi-ge D. Perkins, who was very felici- 
tous in his brief but eloquent remarks; an address on "The Blue," by Rev. 
Mr. Darling, and another on "The Grey" by Rev. Mr. Strickland, the former 
serving in a Pennsylvania and the latter in a Georgia regiment. Each spoke 
in a humorous vein and frequently "brought down the house." Mr. Strick- 
land said that when he enlisted he was in a hurry to get to the front, fear- 
ing that the war would end before he could have a chance to annihilate the 
"Yanks;" but he got to the front, and if he remembered correctly, he was 
often in "a hurry to get to the rear." He was glad that the war ended as it 
did. The cause he had battled for had been shown to be wrong, and he was 
proud now that there was but one flag in this country. He created great 
merriment by saying that he never hated a "Yank" so badly that he would 
refused to take the proffered canteen when it contained "spiritual consola- 
tion.." Mr. Darling's remarks were frequently interrupted by applause. 
Rev. Mr. Jenkins, the "chaplain" of the occasion, was introducd and made 
some happy remarks. 

All the speeches were interspersed 'with music, and after the audience 
had finished their "March through Georgia," Col. Henderson was introduced. 
As he arose to take a seat on the side of a table, the ovation of the after-* 
noon, only on a much larger scale, was repeated. He made an address, and 
the closest attention was given him throughout. It was not a set speech, but 
one that was inspired by tJie occasion and his surroundings. It was in part 
an eloquent admonition that the principles for which the soldiers had battled 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



musf be preserved, if freedom were to be preserved in the uatiou He spoke 
of the fraterual feeling that had been so eloquently spoken of by Mr. Strick- 
land, as existing between the old soldiers of both sides, and closed by declar- 
ing that the unselfish devotion of the Union soldiers bad saved the country. 

Following came short speeches by Col. Simpson of Norfolk, Neb., for 
merly of Dubuque; Hon. H. C. Curtis of Le Mars; John Steeu of Wahoo, 
Neb. ; Col. Sam Knee of Colesburg ; Judge Weaver ; Lieut. Thompson of 
Franklin, Neb. ; Comrade Tirrill of Manchester, and a splendid recitation by 
Miss Steen of Wahoo, Nob., whose father offered up his life for his country, 
being as Col. Simpson said, "one of six brothers who left their home near De- 
corah to fight for the Union," only three of whom came back. 

The reunion was a grand success — the veterans made it such themselves, 
and it will prove to have been one of many pleasant recollections. 

The newly elected officers of the association for the ensuing two years are 
as follows: 

President— H. C. Curtis, Le Mars, la. 

Vice President— John Stweu, Wahoo, Neb. 

Secretary-Abner Dunham. Manchester, la. 

Executive Committee— H. J. Grannis. Randalia la. ; M. D. Nagle, Du- 
buque ; J. E. Eldridge, Stark, Kas. 

The officers are ex-officio members of the executive committee. 

Thei-e were fifteen members of Company I present, as follows: J. L. 
Thompson, Franklin, Neb. ; William Biutuer, Braytou, la. ; David Panp, 
Sac City, la. ; J. S. Ray Napouee, Neb. ; William Da Pray, Silver City ; 
John F. Butters, Sioux City; D. D. McCallum, Sibley, la. ; William Fry, 
Scrauton, la. ; William Koehler, and M. D. Nagle, Dubuque ; MB. Goode- 
uow, Bnrwell, Neb. ; E. B. Campbell, Armstrong, la. ; J. T. Campbell, 
Humboldt, la.; J. W. Coates, Talcott, S. D. ; M. McDermott, Epworth, la. 

Friday afternoon the boys "put up a job" on Sergeant Coates and calling 
him into an ante-room, where they had assembled, unknown to him, pre- 
.sented him with a gold-headed ebony cane. It bore the inscription "From 
Company I, Twelfth Iowa, to J. W. C. " Sergeant Coates was shot through 
the lung at the battle of Tupelo, and, with Comrade Koehler, fell into the 
hands of the enemy and remained in Andersonville about ten months. He 
was a noble soldier— one who was never found wanting when duty called ; 
and it was with pride and pleasure that the boys present presented him 
with a very slight token of their esteem. 

Col. Simpson, secretary of the association, was one of the principal vet- 
erans present, and with the other retiring officers, Major Reed, Judge Weaver 
and Dr. Barr, did excellent but unrewarded work and aided materially in 
making tlie reunion a success. 

Comrade Curtis, the new president, is one of the leading citizens of Le 
Mars, and was a model soldier. 

Col. Sam Knee, of Colesburg--one of nature's noblemen—was a conspicu- 
ous figure at the reunion. The boys have a great stock of love for Col. Sam ; 
also for Lieut. "Bob" Fishel, who wouldn't be known to the boys if you 
should call him Robert. 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. V. INFANTRY. 



Fife Major French, who said he had done more "blowing" for the reg-i- 
ment than any other man in it, came all the way from Denver to blow the 
"Girl I Left Behind Me," and other tunes. 

"I Feel Like, I Feel Like, I Feel, "was admirably rendered by Comrade Eld- 
ridge. The hymn has twenty-eight verses made up entirely of "I feel like." 

The citizens of .Sioux City, the mitilary companies and the retiring oflfi- 
cers received votes of thansk. 

The Company I boys were sorry that Capt. J. F. Zediker was unable to 
be present. He was a true soldier. 

Comrade H. R. Andrevvs, who volunteered to go to Andersonvlle and 
take care of the wounded, was in attendance. He was a hero. 

Capt. Soper will publish a history of Company D and it will be a 
;:VOod one. 

A fine poem, dedicated to the Twelfth, was composed and veud by Mrs. 
Capt. Dunham. 

Hurrah for Manchester in 1896! 

The parting scenes at the close of the reunion were sad, and tears glitjf- 
ened in the eyes of the old Boys in BIito as they bade one another good-bye--- 
some never to meet again ou earth. With bowed heads the veterans left- 
some toward the setting sun, some toward the frozen north; more in the di- 
rection where smiles the God of day, and more where the soft southern 
icspliyrs kiss the diamond dew drops from the Jieart of the rose. 

The following is the verses written by Mrs. Abuer Dunham of Manches- 
ter as read at the reunion. On motion of Comrade Steen a vote of thansks 
was returned to Mrs. Dunham, and the vei'ses to appear in our proceedings: 

TO THE TWELFTH IOWA. 
O, comrades true, who wore the blue, 

Again we greet you liere ; 
And yet our thoughts go wandering back, 

Far back full many a year. 
Onco more we're in the jolly camp, 

And voices swell with song. 
The jest goes round, the laugh rings out, 

Each comrade bears along 
His part of story, song or jest, 

And fun and frolic reign, 
So we forget the weary days 

And we are boys again. 



Again we're on the battle field 

With conirades falling fast ; 
-We've only time to give a sign 

And we go rushing past. 
We glad would stay to soothe their pain 

And close the glazing eye. 
To fold the hands o'er loving bi'east 

And give the last good bye, 



2« FIFTJI REUNION OF TJIK 

Bear from them still some message flear, 

Some token of their love ; 
Yet we can only leave them there 

With their just God above. 

• 
And now we're on the weary march 

With tired feet and sore, 
We plod along through dust and mud, 

And wish the war was o'er; 
Then some one starts some good old song 

And steps grow quick and fast ; 
Our every heart throb keeps tlie time ; 

The march is o'er at last. 
The fires are built, the canteen filled, 

And each one bears a hand ; 
No loiterers now around the camp 

^\^len supper must be planned. * 

We stretch our limbs and try t(j rest. 

Our brains are busy still ; 
With home and all the loved ones there 

Thoiaghts will not stop at will. 
We're just a great big homesick boy, 

Our hearts are grieved and sore- 
Some want a sister, mother, wife 

And some a sweetheart more. 

We brush a hand across our eyes 
And heave a heavy sigh; 

We wish for once we were a girl- 
Then we would dare to cry. 

But tired at last, our eyelids close, 
And dreams come stealing o'er. 

The war is done and joyful news, 
We're home again once more; 

We sleep and rest and dream fond dreams, 
Forget the weary days. 

We're happy children now at home--- 
That home so far away. 

Now, comrades, comes anotlier scene. 

We're standing by the bed 
Of some loved comrade true and brave. 

Who ere the morn lies dead. 
We hear the last fond good-bye. 

The little keep-sakes given. 
The soul of one so pure and good 

Has winged its flight to heaven. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



Poor, homesick boy, so loved and lost. 

Some hearts will bleed today, 
For this dear husband, father, son, 

Or lover dead today. 
O! War so oruel, price so dear. 

That's paid to blot the sin 
Of treason, foul and traitorous name, 

And Union still to win. 
They paid the debt that made all free. 

The black as well as white, 
They washed in blood our royal flag 

And wiped out treasons blight. 

O'er all the land our flag still waves. 

The red, the white, the blue; 
No land more free, no laws more just, 

Saved by our boys so true. 
And once again while hand grasps hand 

And hearts are full of praise, 
We feel the old joy stealing back--- 

The love of other days. 

Mrs. M. A. Widner of Leeds, Iowa, who in war times was a Winnosheik 
county girl at Hesper, Iowa, read the following verses of her own composi- 
tion. They were listened to with pleasure and received with applause. She 
was heartilj' thanked by the comrades: 

OUR GREY-HAIRED BOYS IN BLUE. 



Oh! Grey-haired boys who donned the blue 

So many years ago, 
And marched away from life and love 

To free the southern foe. 

And after long, long toil- and pain 

In home and country borne, 
Come halting back with death-thinned ranks 

And bodies maimed and torn. 

Oh boys in blue, we welcomed you 

With glory's crown of bay, 
And tidal waves of gratitude 

Broke at your feet that day. 

The twice freed land your viilor won. 

Her honor pledged to you, 
That to her war worn, suffering sons 

She would give succor true. 

But years have come and gone, and you 
With weary step and slow, 



2s FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



Have taken up your last loiif;: marcb 
To meet life's latest io-^. 

But, brothers, in your shortening? lives. 

Oppressed with many cares, 
You stand, in honor, far above 

Proud stutecu-iift's millionaires. 

Who, holding that high ])lacc and po-.ver. 

Made possible by you 
Aud built upon your brothers graves 

Find naught that they can do. 

More pleasing than, like moles to delve, 

Mid records old aud gray, 
That, happily they may filch fro-n you 

Your forty cents a day. 

But if to yon their niggard act 

Long poverty assures, 
Let them to their golden millions clasp, 

A million hearts are yours. 

For Columbia's loyal daughters. 

Still to their colors true, 
Love honor, aud the boys 

Who wore the army blue. 

The following is the memorandum spoken of by Major Read in his letter 
published elsewhere, that he was going to bring to the reuuiou and make 
arrangements about, aud had to send to the secretary. There was more or 
less talk by comrades about the publishing our regimental history. All 
were in favor of having it done, biit thought the times were too hard aud 
close to try to raise the means now. Comrade Soper declared his intention 
to publish the history of Company' D as prepared by him if he had tO do it at 
his own expense Comrade Curtis said he woulrl respond to a di-aft for $100 
anj'- time he was called upon to help pay for the regimental history. The whole 
subject was laid over to the next reunion. 

To complete regimental history wanted the company histories from: 

Company A- -No provisions. 

Company D--Partly furnished. . 

Company F---Promiseed by Dunham. 

Company I— Promised by Coates. 

Company K— Promi.sed by Merriam. 

Personal sketches: 

Maj. E. M. Van Duzee— Likely get it with Company . 

Lieut. Col. Coulter— Promised by Mills. 

Lieut. Col. Knee. 

Dr. Finlay. 

Q. M. H. C. Morehead— Likely get it with Company D. 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. V. INFANTRY. 29 

The committee on regimental history request of every surviving member 
of the rgeimeut that each comraiie shall for himself examine the published 
reports of tli3 arljntaut general of Iowa for years 1863 to 1866, inclusive, as to 
his own personal record of enlistment, re-enlistmeiit and casualities; and also 
the roster as published at our last reunion, and report by letter to D. W. 
Reed, 814 Chamber of Commerce, Chicago, Illinois. Every error or omission 
of any kind that you find in your own record, or that of any comrade, even 
to mispelling of a name, giving full particulars. Be sure you are right be- 
fore makiQg report. 

The adjutant general's reports are to be seen in each court house in Iowa, 
and most of public libraries. 

Chicago, Oct. 9th, 1894. 

D. W. Reed, Esq., City—Dear Sir: We will do the composition of a 
"Regimental History," size of type page '^1^x6^^, in brevier type, and furnish 
you 800 copies, "700 pages, printed in black ink on 25x38, 50-pound, S. & C. 
tint paper, like enclosed sample and bind in cloth, plain edges. No. 25 bev- 
eled boards, enameled end sheets, one leaf xx gold stamped on back, not head- 
banded, size of trimmed page 6x9, 800 copies for $1,200.00.; 1,000 copies, 
$1,260.00. 

In the above you are to furnish stamp for back cover, or we will furnish 
same and charge you extra cost, which will be but a few dollars. 

Hoping to be favored with yonr order, which will receive prompt and 
careful attention, we remain Yours very truly, 

W. B. CONKEY COMPANY. 



ao FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



fUemhePs and Visitors. 



List of comrades and relatives registered at the Fifth Reunion of tlie 
Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry: 

Thos. H. Wilson Company A Robertson, Iowa. 

I. H. Bowers Company A Eldora, Iowa. 

C. M. Riinkie Company A Plankiitton, South Dakota. 

Sumner Kemp Company A Alden, Iowa. 

W. P. Winter Company B Bancroft, Iowa. 

Thos. Dowling Company B . . . Rossville, Iowa. 

Frank Klees Company li Rossville, Iowa. 

Robert Wampler Company B Waukon, Iowa. 

John Dowling Company B Rex, Iowa. 

Hugh McCabe Company J^ Waukon, Iowa. 

H. R. Andrews Company B Turkey River, Iowa. 

John I). Cole Company B Lansing, Iowa. 

Mrs. John D. Cole Lansing, Iowa. 

L. D. Bearce Company B Onawa, Iowa. 

G. Hazlet Company C Allison, Iowa. 

1. W. King Company C Emerick, Nebraska. 

J . W. l^all i nger Company C Lacey, Iowa. 

J. W. Bysong C(»mpany C West Point, Nebraska. 

xMrs. J. VV. Bysong West Point, Nebraska. 

Miss Anna Bysong West Point, Nebraska. 

Miss Adelia Bysong West Point, Nebraska. 

Thos. Hendershot Company C Plain view, Nebraska. 

H. C. Curtis Company C LeMars, Iowa. 

D. B. Henderson Company C Dubuque, Iowa. 

W. W. Quivey Company C Pierce, Nebraska. 

Chas. Carrington Company C Rock Branch, Iowa. 

Mrs. Chas Carrington Rock Branch, Iowa. 

J. A. Henderson Company C Cherokee, Iowa. 

Herman Ellgin Company D Bolen, Iowa. 

M. W. Bailey Company I) Manning, Iowa. 

J no. N. Weaver Company D Sioux City. Iowa. 

Mrs. M. M. Weaver Sioux City, Iowa. 

Miss Daisy Weaver Sioux City, Iowa. 

Miss Kate Weaver Sioux City. Iowa. 

Mrs. Flora (Weaver) Ash ford Winnebago. Nebraska. 

Ferd . Dubois Company D Charter Oak, Iowa. 

Mrs. S. C. Dubois Charter Oak, Iowa. 

William liumgardner Company D Scranton, Iowa. 

J. W^ Rowan Comjiany D Vinton. Iowa. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. :n 

M. H. McElroy Company D Percival, Iowa. 

E. B. Soper Company D Emmetsburg, Iowa. 

R. K. Soper Company D Estherville, Iowa. 

Mrs R. K. Soper Estherville, Iowa. 

C. V. Surfus Company E Bristow, Iowa. 

David Creighton Company E Geneva, Iowa. 

J. S. Margretz Company E Hittsville, Iowa. 

C. B. Hayward Company E Mooreville, Iowa. 

Sylvester Cook Company E New Castle, Nebraska. 

R. E. Cook, (Son) New Castle, Nebraska. 

R. L. Bird Company E Hampton, Iowa. 

S. J. Crowlmi-st Company E Salem, South Dakota. 

C. D. Morris Company E Canton, South Dakota. 

Mrs. C. D. Morris Canton, South Dokota. 

R. W. Tirrell Company F Manchester. Iowa. 

Mrs. R. W. Tirrell Manchester, Iowa. 

Thos. McGowan Company F Independence, Iowa. 

F. W. Coolidge Company F Sho Shone, Idaho. 

Mrs. F. W. Coolidge Sho Shone, Idaho. 

Nelson Ralston Company F Canton, South Dakota. 

Joshua Widger Company F Manchester, Iowa. 

L. €. Bush Company F. Kalona, Iowa. 

Ed Correll Company F Greeley, Iowa. 

J. E. Eldridge Company F Stark, Kansas. 

S. M. French ' Company F Denver. Colorado. 

John Bremner Company F Yankton, South Dakota. 

W. A. Nelson Company F Hazelton, Iowa. 

J. E. Simpson Company G Norfolk, Nebraska. 

Mrs. Mary A. Simpson Norfolk, Nebraska. 

O. P. Rocksvold Company G Thonton, Iowa. 

Mrs. A. O. Anderson (daughter) ; Inwood, Iowa. 

A. O. Anderson ■ Inwood. Iowa. 

M. E. Meader Hesper, Iowa. 

Mrs. Louisa Meader Company Hesper. Iowa. 

A. S. Fuller Company G Maryville, Missouri. 

John Steen Company G Wahoo, Nebraska. 

Mrs. John Steen Wahoo, Nebraska. 

Miss Effle Steen Lincoln, Nebraska. 

Lars L. Stalim Company G Sioux Citv. Iowa. 

A. E. Anderson Company G Decorah, Iowa 

John Simmons Company G Flandreau, South Dakota. 

Henry .Steen Company G Lyons, Nebraska 

Mrs. Henry Steen Lyons, Nebraska. 

G. U. Ness Company G Washington Prairie, Iowa. 

W. H . McCune Company H Ruthvan, Iowa. 

R. W. Fishel Company H Greelev, Iowa. 

R. E. Hamblin and Son — ■. Comijany H Findley, Ohio. 

J. A. Light Company H Norfolk, Nebraska. 

J. B. Flenniken .Company H Battle Creek, Nebraska. 

David Jones Company H Taconie, Iowa. 

J. R. Shorter Company H Shell Rock, Iowa. 

H. S. Briggs Company H Marcus, Iowa. 

J. N. Van Anda Companv H Fremont, Nebraska. 

Mrs. J. N. Van Anda Fremont, Nebraska. 

J. Albert Van Anda Fremont. Nebraska. 



:{:: FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

M rs. J. R. Shorter Shell Rock, Iowa. 

VV. II. Cox Company H Alta, Iowa. 

J. M. Crosby Company H Yankton. South Dakota. 

Mrs. J. M. Crosby Yankton, South Dakota. 

Agnes Hrlggs Marcus, Iowa. 

S. G. Knee Company II Colesburg, Iowa. 

E. ]{. (3ampbell Company I Armstrong, Iowa. 

John v. Butters Company I Sioux City, Iowa. 

Rev. O. P. iiutters Sioux City, Iowa. 

Miss Stella Butters Sioux City, Iowa. 

Mrs. Elsie ( Butters) Faulkner Sioux CMty, Iowa. 

Mrs. Annie (iintters) Tiioniley Sioux City, Iowa. 

W. II Dupray Comany I. — Sioux City, Iowa. 

Mrs. Charlotte Cuyley Sumner, Washington. 

M. B. Goodenow Company I Orel, Nebraska. 

J. W. Cates Company I Talcott, South Dakota. 

W. L. P'ry Company I Scranton, Iowa. 

J. T. Campbell Company I Unique, Iowa. 

D. A. Paup. Company I Sac City, Iowa. 

Wm. Koehler Company I Dubuque, Iowa. 

D. D. MeCallum Company I Sibley, Iowa. 

.J as. L. Thompson Company I Franklin. Nebraska. 

Mike McDermott Company I Epworth, Iowa. 

M. D. Nagle Company I Dubuque, Iowa. 

J S. Ray, 10 in family Company I Naponee, Nebraska. 

Wm. Brinter Company I Brayton, Iowa. 

P. J. Moorehouse Company K Mason ville, Iowa. 

VISITORS. 

W. F. Ramsey, Co. I, 2nd Iowa Cavalry. 

S. P. Adams, Co. C, 45th Illinois Infantry. 

W. F. Scott, Co. I, 9th Cavalry. 

Alex. Crassan, Co. C, 8th Ohio Infantry. 

.lames Leith. Co. I. 18th Wisconsin Infantry. 

O. P. Welding, Co. K, 17th Illinois Infantry. 

Geo. Hann, Co. M, 2nd Iowa Cavalry. 

James Jackson, Co. K, 21st Iowa Infantry. 

D. J. Spencer, Co. G, 5tli Wisconsin Volunteers. 

H. W. Chase, Co. H, 96th New York Volunteers. 

T. C. Prescott, Co. H. New Hampshire Infantry. 

H. D. Jenkins, Co. A, 35th P. V. M. (y.) 

Marcia M. Lothrop, Sioux City, Iowa. 

Mrs. J. R. Haines, W. R. C. No. 9, Marshalltown, Iowa. 

Mrs. CarrieArge, Sioux (Jity, Iowa. 

Mrs. Martha Weaver, Sioux City, Iowa. 

Mrs. Laurena Leitch, Sioux City, Iowa. 

Mrs. Mary A. Adams, Leeds, Iowa. 

W. H. McFarland, Co. P, 5th Wisconsin (V.) 

Theo. C. Wather, Co. I, 1st O. V. L. A. 

Geo. W. Wakefield, Co. F, 41st Illinois Volunteers. • 

Geo. D. Perkins, Co, B, 31st Iowa Infantry. 

Mrs. A. Ba.ssett, Sioux City, Iowa. 

Josepli E. Spencer, Co. H, 33rd Illinois Veteran Volunteer Infantry. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. ;« 



IWastet^ed Oat. 



Now comes the stid and painful duty of making a record of those of our 
dear comrades who have passed over the river and gone to their home since 
our last reunion. Here is what the loving pen of Comrade Clarkson says in 
the Des Moines Register of 

COMRADE MYRON UNDERWOOD: 
Dr. Myron Underwood, of Eldora.was found dead in his bed last Sunday 
morning. We have Had over a third of a century's personal acquaintance 
with Dr. Underwood, and the notice of his sudden death touched a tender 
chord in a heart and memory that have so many friends on the other shore. 
He was a leading physician, surgeon and citizen of north central Iowa. He 
came to Hardin county as a young physician seeking a location, some thirty- 
five years ago. Soon afterward he was appointed the assistant surgeon of 
the Twelfth Iowa Infantry, a position he filled wlith a capability and fidelity 
that made him one of the most popular surgeons in the army, and afterwards 
in the state. At the close of the war he returned to Eldora. He was elected 
state senator from Hardin and Grundy counties in 1885, to fill the vacancy 
caused by the death of Lieut. Gov. Eastman, and rendered faithful and 
efficient service to his constituents and the state, but refused to accept further 
political honors on the ground that his patients had the first right to his ser- 
vices. 

Dr. Underwood was still a young man, but his health had been impaired 
by nearly four years of hai'd service and privations in the army, and by the 
exposure to all kinds of weather physicians are compelled to endure who are 
called to ride or drive over the country at all hours of the day and night for 
over a third of a century. He was faithful and sympathetic with his patients, 
and considered it his duty to go whei-ever and whenever called. We knew 
him bast as the assistant surgeon of the Twelfth Iowa infantry, where his 
knowledge and skill should have the credit of saving the lives and easing the 
pains and suft'prings of many comrades. He took great pride in the regi- 
ment and had a personal acquaintance with every member. Flag Day 
was an inspiration to him and he hoped to be here on that interesting occas- 
ion. A comrade reported last week that he would not have to come to Des 
Moines if Dr. Underwood had not urged him to come, and he was surprised 
on arrival to find that the doctor was not present. The doctor was probably 
not feeling well enough to come himself, but bravely refrained from making 



,{4 FIFTH REUNION OF TIIK 

luiy mention of his illness while urging other comrades to attend. So they 
go. Every day and nearly every hour calls some Iowa veteran to join the 
comrades gone on before, but they cross the river of life bravely and meet 
the future with all the heroism in which they dared death in the rain of shot 
and shell in 18(51 -05. 

Eldora, Aug. i;{. ---Spacial: Dr. Myron Underwood, a leading physician 
and prominent citizen of this county, was found dead in liis bed yesterday 
morning at s o'clock, haviiig expired during the night of hearr disease. The 
doctor was county coroner several years ago and it was in this capacity that 
he secured the ill will of the notorious Rainsbarger gang and was shot at by 
them and his life threatened. He was instrumental in exterminating the 
gang and became noted in his fight against law breakers. He represented 
Hardin and Grundy counties in the state senate in 1886, filling out the unex- 
pired term of the late (xovernor Eastman. 

Dr. Underwood was a prominent citizen, whose loss was not confined to 
Hardin county alone. His professional life was a constant devotion to duty 
and no call at his door for assistance, whether made by the rich man or the 
penniless beggar, was ever left unanswered. He was a man of untiring 
energy, prominent in all works of charity and the upbuilding of town and 
county. In his death Eldora loses a worthy citizen, humanity a friend, his 
family a father ever kind and indulgent. A widow and five children are left 
to mourn his loss. 

Myron Underwood was born at Montville, Geauga county, Ohio, Ang. 7, 
18:33, where he lived until he was 12 years of age, when he moved with his 
parents, Jonas and Mary Underwood, to McHeury county. 111. His literary 
education was received in common schools and at Mount Morris, 111. He be- 
gan the study of medicine with Dr. Hager of Marengo, 111., in 1855. In May, 
1859, he came to Hardin county, locating first at Steamboat Rock, moving to 
Eldora in July, 1860. In the first dark days of civil strife he considered it 
a duty to offer his services in defense of the flag. He was commissioned as 
assistant surgeon of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry serving until final discharge 
in Oct., 1865. He was united in marriage in 1861 to Miss Sophia A., daugh- 
ter of John Ellis, who located in this county in 1856. 



COMRADE D. V. ELLSWORTH. 

Eldora (la.) Ledger, Nov. 24. — The i*emaius of D. V. Ellsworth, formerly 
of this city, but lately of Newman Grove, Nebraska, arrived here on last 
Friday night, accompanied by relatives and friends, where the body lay in 
state until Sunday at 2 p. m. , when it was taken to the Congregational 
church, where the funeral services were conducted under tbe auspices of 
Edward C. Buckner Post, G. A. R., of whit^h order he was a member, led by 
Rev. E. Kent, of that church. The services were impressive and had a tend- 
ency to bring to memory many scenes of the long ago. After services at the 
church the remains were taken to the cemetery east of town, and there laid 
to rest by the former comrades in arms. 

At a regular meeting of Emerick Post No. 'M)i, Department of Nebraska, 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. V. INFANTRY. :55 

G. A. K., the following preamble mid resolution were adopted by an nnani- 
uious vote of the Post: 

' ' Whereas, It has pleased the Great Commander of the Universe to call 
from our midst into the grand encampment over the river our esteemed com- 
rade, D. V. Ellsworth, 

"Therefore, Be it resolved that in the departure of Comrade Ellsworth 
we are called upon to mourn the loss of an energetic and useful citizen, a 
kind neighbor, a faithful and indulgent husband and father, a true and genial 
comrade, ever ready to champion the cause of a fellow comrade in distress, 
and a brave, noble and persistent defender of our country in her time of need. 

"Resolved, That we extend our heartfelt sympathy to his bereaved wife 
,aad his now fatherless children. May God keep them and bless them is the 
praj^er of the remaining members of Emerick Post No. 313, Department of 
Nebra.ska." J. H. SWEITZER, 

HENRY NYE. S. V. C, ' Adjutant. 

Acting P. C. 

Thus has passed away a brave soldier, a good citizen, an honest man, a 
loving husband and kind and indulgent father. When I .say that he will be 
missed I fail to express the sense of loss that his family and the community 
at large has sustained. 

Deceased was born May 33, 1840, in Potter county, Pennsylvania, the 
fourth child of a family of six children. He removed with his parents to El- 
dora, Iowa, in 1854, where his father still lives hale and hearty at the age of 
S3 years, In the fall of 1861 he enlisted as a private in Co. A, 13th Reg't., 
Iowa Volunteers, and was honorably discharged and mustered out as first 
lieutenant of same company and regiment after a service of three years, three 
months and 33 days. Jan. 16th, 1865, he was married to Saloma Bowman, 
who, with three children the' fruit of such marriage, still survive him. From 
the time of his marriage in 1865 until May, 1887, he lived m Eldora and 
vicinity and successfully farmed, was railway conductor, revenue assessor 
and druggist. In May, 1887, he moved with his family to Newman Grove, 
Nebraska, where he engaged in the law business, in which he was actively 
engaged at the time he was taken with his last illness. About tlu'ee weeks 
ago he was taken with chills and although he kept about his business for a 
day or two he was finally obliged to give up and take to his bed. At this 
time an old kidney trouble, which had bothered him at times while in the 
service, set in and blood poisoniiig ensued, from which he could not rally. 

Deceased was a member of Emerick Post, G. A. R., and also of Newman 
(Trove Camp No. 1,513, M. W. A., and both organizations did all that could 
be done to soothe his dying bed and comfort his afflicted family. The re- 
mains were taken to Eldora, Iowa, for interment after service under the aus- 
pices of the G. A. R. and M. W. A. at this place. 

Rev. W. E. Kimball of Madison delivered an appropriate and touching- 
address, after which the two societies and his old neighbors and friends bore 
him to the train and we bade a final farewell to the mortal part of D. 
V. Ellsworth. 

As a business partner and neighbor I knew deceased well during the last 



.{^ FIFTH REUNION OF THP] 



six rears of his life and I am glad to be able to testify to his kindness of heart, 
his unbounded generosity, undaunted courage and persevering industry As a 
lavvyei- he was energetic and honest, as a neighbor he was acconimoda ing 
a'd Lsiderate, as a parent he was indulgent and kind, .vs a husband taithful 
V affectionat; His bereaved family uave the heatrfelt sympathy of the 
Entire neighorhood and while we join them in mourning their bereavement as 
our common loss w. <-onsole oui-selves with the thought that he is a^t^ i-e^st.^ 

Daniel V. Ellsworth's home at Newman Grove, Neb. 

A TRIBUTE TO MY ABSENT FRIEND. 
(By J. B. Long Madison, Neb. ) 
Dan Ellsworth's gone! he rests in peace 

Within his dark and nari-ow grave. 
But honors to his name won't cease 

While homes are blest he helped to save; 
He was a soldier true and brave 
And member of the G. A. R. , 

Not one more kindly did behave 
Than he to comrades si nets the war 

But now he is removed too far 

Beyond the reach of friencLship's tie; 
Nor sun, nor moon, nor distant star. 

Will shed their light to guide his eye; 

What pity 'tis that some to die 
And absence veils their pleasant face, 

While those who knew them grieve and sigh 
Beause none else can fill their place. 
Ellsworth, my friend! if I could trace 

The heaven where spirits live iu bliss, 
Or know that endless tin^.e and space 

Were occupied by souls we miss,— 

As I have heard the bullets hiss 
And dared grim death in days of yore, 

I might resign a scene like this 
To be near thee forever more. 

The following names of members of Company B ware handed in at our 
reunion who had died, and since our last meeting no additional information 
has been received up to time of going to press: 

J H Huestis, died at Waterville, Iowa, 1894. 

Bradner Ferguson, died at Soldiers' Home, Marshalltown. 1S94. 

Charles Ogan, died in California some years ago. 

COMRADE B. P. ZUVER. 
Byron P. Zuver died at his residence in Adams, March 1, 18i«. Death 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 37 

resulted from a complication of luug and brain trouble resulting from la 
grippe. Solomon Zuver and Julia Ann Kerns, who were married in Wayne 
county, Ohio, in 1839, were the parents of five children, of whom Byron P. 
Zuver was the eldest, and all of whom are now dead with the exception of 
our esteemed citizen Geo. W. Zuver. 

Mr. B. P. Znver was born Nov. 8th, 1840, in Wayne county, Ohio, thus 
making his age at the time of his death 52 years, 4 months and 13 d^ys. 

After the removal of the family to Iowa, he attended the common schools 
and finished his school education at Western college, in Linn county, Iowa 
He was the possessor of an active mind, which he continued to develop. 

He had been a member of the county board of supervisors, held numer- 
ous other offices and had been for a number of years a member of the school 
board. At the time of his death and for a number of years, he had been one 
of the most efficient postal clerks in his division. In all of these positions 
his faithful services were "a credit to him. 

He enlisted in Company D, 12th Iowa Infantry, being the first to enlist 
from his county. His army record is long and honorable, being in the serv- 
vice 4 years and 8 months. He was in the battles of Shiloh, Foit Donaldson 
and Fort Henry, which were but fragments of his active army life. He 
w\T,s a prisoner and after being paroled rejoined his regiment. He with his 
regiment was mustered out of service Jan. 20th, 1866. He has written a 
very complete history of Company D, 12th Iowa Veteran Volunteers, and 
was appointed a member of the regimental* historical committee. After the 
war he returned to Macon City, Iowa. Later he engaged in the hotel busi- 
ness, at Waterloo, Iowa, from which place he came to Nebraska, and took a 
homestead in Hooker township, July 17th, 1867. In Nebraska he became ac- 
quainted with Miss Nancy Adams, a daughter of J. O. Adams, the veteran 
pioneer and the man for whom our town was named. Six children were 
born to them, three of whom have gone on before, and three with Mrs. Zuver 
remain to mourn his loss. We shall miss him. We have lost a man, a manly, 
noble man. The town will miss him in everj- enterprise, charitable, social, 
political, or financial. The G. A. R. will have one vacant chair which will 
never be filled, and the vacancy of which they will never cease to feel, but 
we believe they will have a comrade who will place a light in the window 
of the temple on the other shore to guide them home. The A. F. & A. M. 
have lost a brother here but "Hope looks beyond this vale of tears" to a fra- 
ternity eternal. The church will miss him, his support, his influence, his en- 
couraging words and noble character. Scores of us will miss a personal 
friend, his kind words, friendly acts, sympathy, encouragement and good 
cheer. The writer feels the loss of a true friend whose many kind acts and 
cheering words we shall never forget. His family has sustained a great loss, 
and we extend our sympathj^, sharing as far as may be in their sorrow by 
keen sense of our own loss, and a full appreciation of their far greater loss. 
Funeral services were held at the M. E. church Wednesday at 3 o'clock, and 
were conducted by Rev. M. C. Smith of Grafton, the A. F. & A. M. and G. 
A. R., joining in the ceremonies. —The Adams (Neb.) Globe, March 24, 1893. 



:iS FIFTH REUNION i)V THE 

COMRADE THOMAS BARR. 

Tlionias Barr was born in tbe state of Ohio, on the 10th day of August, 
18;5!l; came to Cedar county, Iowa, with his ijarents in J84(>, and thence re- 
moved to Benton county, Iowa, in 1S4S, and lived in Benton countj' the re- 
mainder of his life, except during his term of service. 

Thomas Barr enlisted at Shellsburg, Benton county. Iowa, in Company 
D, Twelfth Iowa Infantry Volunteers, about the first day of October, ]8(i], and 
was a model soldier. At the battle of Shiloh, April (5th, 18(52, he received a 
severe gun shot wound in the thigh, and with the rest of the command was 
taken prisoner, but was recaptured on the following day, when the advances 
of our lines covered the ground lost the day before. He was sent to hospital 
and sufficiently recovered to return to his company, then in the Union bri- 
gade, in the early autumn of 18(52 was at the battle of Corinth, in the Union 
brigade, and was present in all the battles and skirmishes the Twelfth Iowa 
was engaged in after that time. He did not re-enlist and was up Red River 
with A. J. Smith's command and at the battle of Pleasant Hill with the other 
non-veterans of the Twelfth in the 35th Iowa Infantry. At the expiration of 
his three year's enlistment, he was mustered out, by rea.son of expiration of 
term of service and returned to his home in Benton county, where, on the 
29th daj' of December, 18(54, he was married to Amy D. Bickell. He left 
surviving his widow and four. children, all grown up and married. He died 
December 27th, 1892, at his home on a farm near Sellsburg of i)aralysis. 

Thomas Barr was a large, strong, vigorous man; was never in hospital or 
disabled from duty except on account of wounds received in battle. He was 
a quiet man, brave, unfiiuching and always ready for duty, never grumbling, 
and his death will be very much of a surprise to, and sincerely regretted bj^ 
all of Company D. He was present at the reunion at Waterloo and appeared to 
be in vigorous health. 



COMRADE T. R. M'KEE. 

News came here on Tuesday that Major Truman R. McKee had died at 
the home of his brother in Chicago, Monday, January 8th, 1894, and that 
the remains wcmld reach here for burial Tnesdaj^ evening. They arrived on 
the 7:r)5 train and were taken in charge by the G. A. R. 

To most of our citizens the news came as a surprise, but to those who 
had an intimate acciuaintaace with the deceased it was to them an event )iot 
altogether unexpected. Those who knew him best were aware of the exist- 
ence of a disease that had troubled him for long years and from which death 
would come" at almost any moment. The biographi(\'i.l sketch is very meagre 
for want of materials. 

Truman R. McKee was born in Watertown.New York, in 1828, and v.'as 
(55 years old in May, 189:5. His bojMiood days were spent in Sacket's Har- 
bor, New York. He spent a few years on the lakes as a sailor in company 
with his brother in his 3'ounger days. It is said tluit a fall from the mast of 
the Hornet, a vessel commanded by his- brother, laid the founflations of tlie dis- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



.-.ud .to of Iowa and «X ntl fn n T, " "''"""' "' Miu.esota for a while 

battle of Shiloh, which occur .ecl^In /^ 18 2 and i'^H" ,""' "'^^ ^" *^^^ 
called the forces together ou tiuatt^Tl^^ble ol fo' LZ.' T" *'^* 
of service the 28th day of April, 1862, for disabiHty """ ""' 

Mr. McKee enlisted in the army of his divine Lord -^i^ m . 
years ago and became a "good soldier of Jes « n, .- ''"^, ^''^'^^^ °''^^- »'"« 
be an honored and con.sislent nl^u bL of ^ Me^^^^^^^^ f "^^^^" *« 

the cin.e of his death, whez. he received fron7the Greafc^^^^^^^^ ,t"?' '"' 
our s^uls his promotion to membership in that gride any Twh "' "* 
bers the poet sings: d'-auum army, ot whose num- 

" Soldiers of Christ, well done; 

Thy glorious warfare is past' 
Your battles fought, the victories won. 

And thou art crowned at last." 

The funeral occurred at the M. E. church at 1 o'clock d .n w. . , 
which wa.s conducted by Rev. W. J Hyde in -i shorf h? Wednesday, 

The remains were laid away besidfi:!: wifC tle'DeirSr L" T"" 
There was no relative present except his brother wiuf w^n !> ^''^''^'■ 
stayed while in Chicago. There is no need of l.t ^^^"^ whom the major 
Kee's social and moral^,harac: ^ o h Ts endors"e7b;The"';'°"' ^'^ ^^- 
for honesty and integrity. -Dell Rapids ^^1^ 12 iC """"""*'" 

COMRADE HIRAM KASTER. 

The funeral services of Hiram Kaster were conducted l,v r 

Adams, at the home of the deceased's family some W ^f-, ' ,^ " ^• 

Manciiester, at 2 o'cl.ick n m Anvil -T i V Z ""^'''^ southeast of 

.a,.,.red a. the ho„se,l:\Lr„A^l"„,.!: f^ '.V™- ;;',7« --'' """ 

by the afflicted family, who have the svmn. fv f ,, , ' '' '^^^'^P^^ ^^^^ 

following obituary was read at the sertlcT ' ''^'^ "'^ '""" "^^^ ^he 

Hiram Kaster was born in Mercer county, Ph., July is 18^-:? . i 
sou of Sealey and Mary 'Shilling) Kaster Whm. h ' "^"'^ '^^''^ '^ 

ago his father came to Delaware LtiyancUir vf^"' ""T ''''''' ^^^^« «^ 
spent on Spring Branch. Li Sept'n b;; i8( .oT .. '"' "^""'""'^ ^^^^"^ 
oivil war, and when only 18 year c^ age 'he enli 3 '""" "^^ ^^^^""^ «^ ^^- 
F. 12th Iowa Volunteer Int Jtry. andln'c 1 lie ^TZ '^ ^"^^"^ 
discharged for disability incurred during his ten of ^er^^^^^^^^^ "h!" "T 

engagement m which he took part during the time of ^^J'lJ^T^, 



40 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



Douolsou., He was in minor euf^agemuets, and saw a great deal of bard serv- 
ice in marches, and in camp during the winter of 1861-62. December 25, 1864, 
bo married Miss Hannah Pierce, also of Spring Branch, and a niece of Mrs. 
Matt Brayton. Hiram Raster died at bis home in Milo township, Satui-day, 
April 1, 189;J, being at the time of his death 49 years, 8 months and 18 days 
old. At Port Donelson be contracted the disease which made him so great a 
sufferer all the.se years and finally resulted in his death. He leaves a wife, 
three daughters and one .son, also three brothers, one sister and an aged mother, 
besides numy friends to mourn bis loss. A loyal soldier, a faithful friend, a 
good son and brother, the kinde.st of bu-sbands and fathers has gone to bis rest, 
and the world is better for bis having lived in it. 

COMRADE JAMES (^UTLIP. 

At a regular meeting of Jo Mower Post No. Ill, (t. A. R. , Department 
of Minnesota, lield in their ball in Pine Island, Minn.. September 7, 1892, 
tlie following resolutions were adopted: 

"Whereas, It lias pleased an all wise Providence to remove from our post 
by death, our comrade and neighbor, James Cutlip, formerly a member of Com- 
pany G, 12tb Iowa Infantry, and of the greater loss suffered by those who 
were nearest and dearest to him; therefore be it 

"Resolved, That it is but a just tribute to the memory of the deceased to 
say that in son-owing for bis removal from our Post, we mourn for one who 
was in every way worthy of our re.spect and regard. 

"Re.solved, That we .sincerely sympathize with his family' in their af- 
fliction, and we bow to the ordering of him who 'doeth all things well.' 

"Resolved, That this testimonial of our heartfelt sorrow and sympathy be 
forwarded to the family of the deceased and that a copy be furnished tlie 
Pine Island Record for publication." 

F. HAGLER. 

J. D. HASTINGS. 

F. JEWELL, 

Connnittee. 



COMRADE DRENGMAN OLESON AAKER. 

Aaker — At his home in Ridgeway, on the 30th ult. , Hon. D. O. Aaker, 
aged 53 j'ears, 6 months and 1 da}'. 

Mr. Aaker was born in Norway in September, 1839, but came to Americnv 
with his parents wlien only nine years old. They first settled in Waukesha 
('o. , Wis. , but in 1854 they came to Iowa and located at what was then a 
promising point (now defunct) in the corner of Madison and Lincoln town- 
ships, called Burr Oak Springs. When the war of the rebellion broke out Mr. 
Aaker promptly enlisted with Capt. Tapper in Company G of the 12th Iowa 
Volunteer Infantry. He .served through the war and was a good soldier. In 
1869 he nuirried Christina Eleffson, who boi'e to him Lena, John Tlieodore, 
Adolph Oscar, and Dreugman ('asper, all of whom survive him. 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. V. INFANTRY. 41 

Always active in politics and public affairs, he held numerous local offi- 
ces, and in 1880 ran for clerk of the courts against Myron J. Harden, but was 
defeated. In the following year he ran for representative in the Iowa general 
assembly, was elected and re-elected two years later, making a creditable rec- 
ord for himself. In 1885 he ran for senator and was beaten by T. W. Burdick. 

When Ridgeway was started he moved to the new town and engaged in 
the lumber trade. Later he became a member of the mercantile firm of Galby 
& Aaker. For a time prosperity attended them, but they were doing business 
on a falling market, ten years later the wheat blight struck this region, and 
their debtors, unable to pay, moved away to the Dakotas and elsewhere,,leaving 
the firm stranded financially. From this Mr. A. never recovered. 

Socially and personally always genial, more than usually intelligent, "D. 
O. " was always popular when before the people. He had his faults, as all 
have. His antagonisms were all political and not personal; and the grave cov- 
ers them all with a mantle of love and oblivion. Peace to his ashes. 

The funeral services were held Monday, a large concourse attending. 
Messrs. L. L. Cadwell, P. McCusker. R. F. Greer, John Harmon, C. L. Hol- 
comb and O. A. Anderson of Col. Hughes' Post, attended as pall bearers for 
their deceased comrade. 



COMARDE JOHN B. THOMPSOM. 

John B. Thompson, a veteran of the 12th Iowa, died at or near Spilville, 
Sunday, and was buried Tuesday. 

(vomrade Thompson was a member of Company G, loved and respected 
bj^ all liis comrades. He passed away at his home near Spilville, Winnesheik 
county, Iowa, in the .spring of ^1894. 

COMRADE STEPHEN B. MILLER. 

The follwing was cnt from the Yaquina Post, published at Toledo, Ore- 
gon, February 24th, 1894, and tells of the death of one of Company G, whose 
personal record during the war showed as much courage and bravery as any 
member of the regiment; of great strength and endurance; always ready for 
duty. He never knew what fear was. He was a soldier every inch of him. 
'"Peace to his ashes." 

Stephen B. Miller, a notice of whose decease appeared in the Post of the 
17th. iust., was born in New York, in May, 1841, and consequently was 52 
years and 9 months old on the day of his death. 

His parents emigrated to Iowa and settled in Winnesheik county, where 
he was raised. At the breaking out of the late war he .ioined Company G 
of the Twelfth Iowa Volunteers. Sometime after his enlistment he was 
taken prisoner and incarcerated in Libby prison. A few months there- 
after he was paroled and returned to his company in the field. About nine 
months thereafter he was again captured and thrown into that vile den, An- 
dersonville prison, with others were sujected to the most inhuman cruelties 
and neaily starved to death. With hope and life almost gone, a terribly 



42 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

emaciated body and brokeu constitution he with others was released from 
Andersouville prison and sent to a hospital for medical treatment. After sev- 
ral mouths he regained strength enough, and by his own earnest solicitation 
lie was returned to his regiment, where he served honorably to the end of tlie 
war. Steve, as he was familiarly called by his fellow soldiers, was known 
in his regiment as a brave, true soldier, and a generous worthy comrade. He 
was a blacksmith by trade, and worked for the O. P. company about eight 
years. He was always of an industrious turn, and from his prison confine- 
ment — from the effects of which he never fully recovered — he failed from 
year to year, until finally tuberscnlosis consamption and general debility car- 
ried him to an imtijuely grave. 

He loaves a wife and two small chidren to mourn his loss. Mr. Miller 
was known on the Bay as a kind, indulgent father, a good provider, and a 
peaceful conscientious citizen. He was buried at Corvallis in Odd Fellows" 
cemetery, under the auspices of the Grand Army of the Republic. May his 
soul i-est in peace. CO^IRADE. 

COMRADE WILLIAM HOERNER. 

Dubuque (Iowa) Daily Journal, Aug. 27, 1894: Another man who went 
forth at the. call of his country has answered the last roll call, and is now a 
member of that Grand Ai-my that has passed to the other shore. William 
Hoerner is his name, and he died Sunday morning at Finley hospital, to 
which place he had been taken a few days ago. Wounds and other injuries 
received in the army were the cause of his death. At the time of his demise 
he was about 60 years of age, but he looked much older, owing to continued 
ill health occasioned by his wounds. Mr. Hoerner was a native of Geramny, 
but came to this country about forty-five years ago and had been a resident of 
Dubuque for about forty years. At the breaking oat of the war he enlisted 
in Company H, 12th Iowa Infantry, and served all throilgh the struggle and 
remained in the service until 1806, when the ragiment was mustered out. He 
was a brave and gallant soldier, and, with the writer of these lines was a 
member of the color-guard of the regiment. He was in all the great battles 
in which the regiment was engaged — Forts Henry, Donelsou, Shiloh, Jack- 
sou, Vicksburg, Tupelo, Nashville aud others— always bearing himself with 
honor aud credit. At the expiration of his term he returned to Dubuque and 
shortly afterwards established an apiary in the upper part of the cit}% con- 
ducting it and gaining a meagre livelihood until the effects of his wounds, to- 
gether witli the infirmities of age, broke down liis health; when, through the 
influence of Col. Henderson the poor old veteran was granted a small pen.sion. 
Comrade Hoerner was never married. He was recognized by all who knew 
him as a man of honor aud integrity. He was so constituted that he could 
not do an unmanly act. His sense of honor was as keeu as that of the 
knights of the days of chivalry, and there is not a member of the old 12th 
alive today who will not heave a sigh of deep regret when they learn of 
"'Billy" Hoerner's death. He was our comrade in the days when the flush of 
youth was on his cheek and before the hand of time had wrinkled our brow. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 43 

We knew him in the glad morning of life when he shouldered his musket 
and went forth to preserve the integrity of the stars and stripes. We saw him 
on the field of death, but he did not waver. We saw him faint from wounds, 
but he did not murmur. We saw him in the prison pen, but he was cheerful. 
We saw him throughout over four years of war and always knew him to be a 
soldier and a man. Like so many thousands of other soldiers he has passed into 
the dreamless sleep. Time has supplanted his raven locks with their silver,and 
the elastic step of youth had given place to the decreped pace of age. Death had 
no terrors for him. In the mellow sunset of an honored life he passed into 
the valley of the shadow and fell asleep at the sound of the taps of Death. 
He was a member of Hyde Clark post and will be buried under its auspices 
at 3 o'clock tomorrow afternoon in the soldier's lot. . 

Green be the turf above thee, 

Friend of our youthful days; 
None knew thee but to love thee, 

None named thee but to praise. 

Ele was a member of Halcyon Encampment No. 1, and Harmony Lodge 
No 2, I O. O. F. 



COMRADE EDWARD BECKETT. 

Dubuque Daily Globe-Journal, Oct. 23, 1894: A letter received here yes- 
terday announces the death of Capt. Edward Beckett, who passed away at 
the National Soldiers' Home at Laaveuworth, Kas. , last Thursday, and whose 
interment took place the following Friday evening in the cemetery connected 
with the home. Captain Backett, when he was here about two months ago 
on a furlough from the horns, was in very poor health and said then that he 
soon expected to be with the boys on the other side. He had been in very 
poor healtJi for several years and was patiently awaiting the final sixmmons. 

Captain Ed. Backett Wiis boru in Center Grove and at the time of his 
death was about 53 years of age. His father, Edward Beckett, Sr. , who is 
still a i-esident of Center Grove, came to this country from England when 
quite a young man and engaged in mining, and the sou also followed this oc- 
cupation until the breaking out of the war. Captain Beckett received a good 
common school education, and when the call for 75,000 ti-oops was issued by 
President Lincoln, in 1861, he enlisted as a member of the old Governor's 
Greys and served with the famous First Iowa Inafutry during its three 
months term of service. 

When the Twelfth Iowa was being organized in this city, a few months 
after he had returned home. Captain Beckett took an active part in the or- 
ganization of Company H, and was made a sergeant. . He served with dis- 
tinction and was severly wounded in two different battles. He was by nature 
a soldier, and at the termination of the war enlisted in the regular army and 
served five years, returning home at the expiration of his term of service. In 
1874, when Captain Dan Duane and others were forming the Dubuque Rifles, 
Captain Beckett became a member of the company and rendered such valua- 



44 P^IFTH REUNION OF THE 

ble assistance that he was elected first lieutenant and on the appointment of 
Captain Duane as colonel of the then Fourth regiment. Lieutenant Beckett 
was promoted to the captaisicy. He was a thorough soldier and a fine drill 
master and took great pride in having a fine company, which, it will be 
readily admitted, the Rifles were under the leadership of Duane and Beckett 
respectively, both having been through the war. 

Captain Beckett was a man who never shirked duty, no matter how dan- 
gerous it might be, and he was held in high regard by every member of the 
Twelfth Iowa. He was in the same company with the late G. W. Horner, 
who passed away last August, and' fought at Donelson, Shiloh, Tupelo, Vicks- 
burg, and all the other great battles in which the regiment too part. He 
is now a member of the grand army on the other side of the line of time. 
His death will be sincerely regretted by all who knew him,' and especially 
old comrades-in-arms. His was a true and loyal heart. He loved the old flag 
and fought gallantly to preserve all that it symbolizes. He went out in his 
young manhood and gave the best years of his -life to his country. He is now 
sleeping in an honored soldier's grave in the bosom of the laud his valor 
helped to save; and all his old comrades will drop a tear when they learn that 
brave Ed. Beckett is no more. He was a member of Hyde Clark Post. 



COMRADE W. H. MARKHAM. 

W. H. Markham was born in Cattaragus county, N Y. , and moved to 
Iowa, and when the dark clouds of war made their apperance 
he thought it his duty to go and defend that dear old flag; and on October 
14th he volunteered in Company I, 12th Iowa Infantry; was taken prisoner at 
the battle of Shilo, Teun., and for several montlis suffered the indignities of 
prison life; was exchanged and returned to his regiment and participated in 
all its engagements, in all its long and weary marche.s, and in February, 180(5, 
he was mustered out of the service and returned home with the seeds of dis- 
ease so firmly planted in his system that it was impossible to eradiacte 
them. He moved to Wisconsin, and in 1885 he came to this county, thinking 
that the climate and in the pure light air he might regain his health. Since 
that time he has been our con.stant friend, a kind neighbor beloved by all. 
one who was always ready to extend the hand of charity. He was a man of 
more than ordinary ability, a true christian. He died on the morning of 
Aug. 9th. His death was no surprise. He had no fear of death and when it 
came it was but a transition, for he passed away as serenely as a child asleep. 

He was a member of the E. E. Kimball Post,. G. A. R. , and was buried 
by the order he loved so well, assisted by the ladies of the G. A. R. The 
wreaths of flowers, the silken flag across his breast and the long procession 
plainly indicated that he had many friends. The funeral service was very 
impressive and painfully showed that we would all soon answer to the last 
roll call. 

N"o euconium is too high, no honor too great for such a soldier. Without 
the incentive or the motive which controls the officer, who hopes to live in 
history without the hope of reward actuated only by a sense of duty and pa- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 45 

triotifem. However much of credit and glory may be given and probably justly 
given to the leaders of the struggle, history will yet award the main honor 
where it is due— to the private sodier— who, without hope of reward, with no 
other incentive than a conscientiousness of rectitude has encountered all the 
iiardships and has suffered all the privations. Our comrade will be missed by 
all who knew him. Praxitites, the great sculptor, sought to perpetuate the 
smile of his beloved on marble lips, believing that art could do what love de- 
nied. No art, no cunning chisel, no undying marble are needed here. We 
shall indeed never again feel the warm grasp of oar noble comrade, nor be 
glad in his sunny smile, nor drink in the deep lights of his discourse. But 
sweet raennn-ies of his generous nature,of his chivalrous bearing, of his devo- 
tion to principle, of his boundless love for his country, of his fidelity will sur- 
vive. He was his own biographer, and his own sculptor, for he made his 
life a part of the undying history of his country and engraved his image in 
the hearts of his countrymen. H. Gr. I'ATTERSON. 



COMRADE ISAIAH K. CRANE. 

Isaiah K. Crane, the son of Solomon and Elizabeth (Mills) Crane, was 
born in Washington, Sullivan county. New Hampshire, February 28, 1820. 
His earliest years were spent on the farm. In 1843, Miss Olive Heald became 
his wife. She died in 1855, leaving two chlidern, John H. , and James C. , 
both residents of this oity. Soon after the death of his wife Mr. Crane came 
to this state and engaged in farming until the war broke out, when he heed- 
ed his country's call and enlisted as a member of Company I, Twelfth Iowa 
Infantry. He was present at Fort Henry, Fort Douelson, Shiloh the Siege 
of Vicksburg, the Red River expedition under General Banks, etc., serving 
his country faithfully and well for three years and three months. After the 
war Mr. Crane resumed farming in this county, and on February 13, 1865, 
was united in marriage to Miss Margaret Angeline Smith of De Witt, who 
survives him and who enjoys the proud distinction of being able to trace her 
ancestry to the noble Robert Bruce, of Scotland. Her father, Robert L. 
Smith, was the first abolitionist, to his honor be it said, of Clinton county. 
I. K. Crane, the subject of this sketch, died at his home in this city on Tues- 
day morning , August 21, 1894, of dropsy of the heart. At the age of 18 be 
became a member of the Baptist church and until his death, or more than 
fifty-six years, lived a sincere, upright christian life. If he ma^le mistakes, 
and all men do, they were of the head and not of the heart, and it is the 
universal verdict of all who knew" him well that he was one of nature's 
noblemen. What higher title can any man have or desire. He was honest, 
generous and patriotic. By his second wife he leaves two sons, R. Edward 
and S. Bird, both of whom as well as the other two, John H. and James C. , 
were present at the funeral, which was held at the Buckhorn church, under 
tlie auspices of A. W. Drips Post, of which he was an honored member, and 
was one of the largest of the many large funerals which have been held in 
that neighborhood. More than ninety teams were in the procession. Dr. 
Hi^ald pronounced the funeral discourse, a fitting -eulogy to the departed. The 



4() FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

remains were laid to rest iu the adjoining cemetery, of whicli deceased 
has been sexton for nearly thirty years. 



COMRADE DAVID S. GODFREY. 

David S. Oodfrey, Company F, 13th Iowa, died at Wier City, Kansas, 
soniotime in the fall of 1887. 



COMRADE A. C. OILMAN. 
Comrade A. C. Oilman, Company H, 12th Iowa, died at the Soldiers' 
Home, Marshalltown, Iowa, December 18th, 1891, at the age of sixty-three 
years, of capilary bronchitis. His body was shipped to Insdianapolis, Ind., 
for burial. Here is what Comrade Van Anda says of him: 

Fremont, Neb., Nov. loth, 1894. 
Dear Comrade Simpson: I have just received from the Iowa Soldiers' 
Home commander the announcement of the death of onr old comrade, A. C. 
Oilman. One by one the boys are laid away, and when A. C. passed from 
this life a good soldier was absent, but accounted for. I am unable to give 
an extended account of him. I have not met him since '68 and know nothing 
of him except as a soldier. He was generally respected, always ready to do 
his duty and in all respects a model soldier. 

Respectfully, J. A. VAN ANDA. 



COMRADE FRANK M. HAMLIN. 

Comrade Frank M. Hamlin of Company H, 12th Iowa, died at his home 
in Iowa Falls, Iowa, April 29th, 1890, aged 57 years. C!omrade Van Anda 
says of him: 

I can only remember him as a bold boy and one that we could rely upon 
under every circumstance---one of those bold boys that we like to think of. 
But he is serving iu the great army on the other side. We can go where he is, 
but he cannot come to us. May he rest iu peace aud be among those who 
are in the O. A. R. above. Respectfully, 

J. A. VAN ANDA. 



COMRADE JAMES S. DUPRAY. 

James S. Dupray, 5th sergeant Company I, 12th Iowa Volunteer Infantry, 
was born iu Franklin, Venango county, Penn., in 1814. Enlisted in the 12th 
Iowa September 27th, 1861 ; discharged iu 1862 account of disability; received 
in line of duty at Pittsburg Landing; died in Monroe county, Iowa, 
December 6th, 1876, from disease contracted in the service of the government. 



Some comrade at the reunion handed in the following memorandum of 



TWELFTH iOWA Y. V. INFANTRY 



47 



deaths in Company E, with a promise that the date of deaths and other in- 
formation would be sent soon. None has been received as this goes to press: 

COMRADE JOHN ELWELL. 

Lieut. John Elwell of Company E, 12th Iowa, died at Chicago, 111. 

COMRADE JOHN C. JONES. • 

John C. Jones of Company E, died at his home near Geneva, Iowa. 

COMRADE THOMAS DEMORSS. 

Thomas Demorss of Company E, died at his home near Briston, Iowa. 

COMRADE ALEXANDER MEYERS. 

Alexander W. Meyers of Company E, died at his home ta Shell Creek, 
Iowa. 




48 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



CommaniGations. 



The following letters were received at ditterent times and by difierent 
persons, and w'ill, without doubt, be read with pleasure by you all, breath- 
ing as they do the spirit of love and kindly feeling that exists so strongly 
between old comrades: 

Manchester, Iowa, Oct. 2~th, 1894. 
Dear Comrade Simpson: — 

Yours of 28rd inst, came yesterday. I note what you say about getting 
out proceedings of the 5th reunion and think that yoa had better prepare 
the same and have them printed, for no one not present can begin to do it 
justice. Another reason is that as now situated it is impossible for me to 
do it on account of the county building a new court house, and I am crowded 
in temporary quaretrs in a room about 14 feet ?quare and have not the room 
to do the work required in the office. Hope, however, to get moved in the 
uew quarters about January 1st, when I will have fine quarters with plenty 
of room and good light, providing, of course, that the people oi> the 6th of 
November say by their vote that I may occupy them. Am so glad the re- 
union proved such a success. I almost cried when tne boys started from here 
that I was unable to go. 

The people here feel complimented that the boys are to come here again, 
and will give them a royal reception. They feel nearer to the old 12th than 
any other regiment, and no other who has held reunions here have had as 
good times as ours. We must work for a good representation of the families 
of the comrades next time, and would suggest that you put something in the 
proceedings that will set them to thinkng about it and making perparatioii 
to that effect. I send you a paper with account of death of Ed. Beckett 
Compay H, who has died since reunion. Mrs. D. joins iu kindest regards to 
you and Mrs. S. In haste. Your comrade, ABNER DUNHAM. 

Chicago 111., Oct. lOth. 1894. 
My Dear Judge:— 

Although I have been writing to Butters and yourself, telling of the ditti- 
culties in the way of my going to Sioux City, and of the probabilities of my 
being unable to attend the reunion, I have bad a sneaking notion in my u)iud 
all of the time, that despite all obstructions I would find some way to cut 
loose at the last minute, and be with you, and last week at Council Bluffs 1 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 49 

told Geu. Henderson snd others that I would certainly show up on the morn- 
ing of the second day, but I find now it is impossible for me to go. I Jiave a 
number of important matters on hand that are demanding attention, and to 
cap the climax I have been subpoenaed before the court in a case now pending, 
and in which my presence is essential. I Cannot express in words the regret I 
feel over this matter. It is the pride of my life that I had the honor to com- 
mand the 12th Iowa, and with each succeeding year I think of my old com- 
rades with increasing love and fondness. God bless the dear old boys. Give 
them my love and kindest greetings, and the assurance that if the good Lord 
will spare my life I will use my best endeavor to be with them at the next 
reunion. 

I trust your reunion may prove a success in eveiy sense, and that the oc- 
casion may be counted a notable one in the history of our organization. Be- 
live me. Very truly your friend and comrade, 

J. H. STIBBS. 

Manchester, Iowa. Nov. loth, 1894. 
Dear Comrade Siihpson: — 

Yours of 23rd ult. , telling me of my being selected as secretary of our 
regimental association, and also of the decision of the association to return 
"home" at next reunion, is received. While I doubt the wisdom of the choice 
of its secretary it is a compliment of which I feel proud, and while incom- 
petent to perform the duties sati.sfact 'rily to myself, be assured I will do 
my best. 

I hope every comrade will at once begin preparations to come, for a 
warm reception awaits us. I feel warranted in saying that none have a big- 
ger place in the hearts of the people of Manchester than the 12th Iowa. This 
I know t'rom expressions heard on every side, both before and since the de- 
cision to return. 

Let every comrade as far as they can bring their wives and children, and 
for them to prepare to take part in our exercies which for our children will 
he a great school in patriotism— a branch in their education we should do all 
in our power to advance. 

Hoping to meet everyone of the "old boys" and their families in '90, 
^ I am your comrade, ABNER DUNHAM. 

Roseburg, Oregon, Oct. 5th, 1894. 
Hon. J. N. Weaver: — 

Dear Comrade: It is with keen regret that I write it is impos.sible to be 
with you and the comrades at the Sioux City reunion of our good regiment. 
I missed the last because of the storm. Before I missed none. And they 
were always like going home as I met the comrades. It is a great disappoint- 
ment that I cannot at this time grasp the hand and look into the eyes and 
see away beyond the grej^ hairs and faltering step, see the boy in blue with 
raven locks and elastic step. And the)i the talk of bygones, the friendly in- 
ijei-est in our present conditions, etc. I am prond of the 12th Iowa and its 



FIFTH REUNION OF TIIK 



iv(M)itl. And as I stand od my doorstep and look out over the valley of the 
Uinbk(ina and see the stars and stripes floating over the Orof^on Solders' 
Home, I feel prond that I wore the bine and now the bronze button, and to- 
day connt on my loyalty to that tina and American insHtntions in the fullest 
sensn of the word. We bespeak y(m {^I'eat happiness, and no tlood to mar 
the hour. We hope yet to meet you in reunion. But let us so live, that liv- 
iiijj; or dying, we be still brave soldiers and ready for the f<reat reunion wiili 
the brave wlio havf j^one before. Frati'rnally yours, 

.lAMES BARK 
P. S. — enclosi'd one dollar for nuMnbrrsliip fees for myself. A. B. 

('resco, Iowa. Oct. lOtli. i:]U\. 
'l\ (4. Heiid(M-soii, Si(mx (Mty, Iowa: — 

Dear Nephew: Youi' telej^^ram was received in duf^ rime and I found it 
impossible to i?et away just now. It is the busy season in tiie grain business, 
and 1 have to be here more or less every day. I might have got away for 
one day, but the distance would require three or four days. Very sori'v I 
rould not meet with my old comrade.s. When I got your telegram I thouglit 
of sending Uussie.to represent me at the reunion, as she has attended all of 
them. But I found that our agent had no instructions as to s]>ecial rates for 
the reunion for a distaiute over 300 miles. But ycm will nndei'stand that my 
inclination leads me to yonr city, but my finances tell me to go slow. 

Th(n"e is no place my dear Tom where I would like to go at present i>et- 
ter than to your city, and make my staj' with your family, for I well know 
the sincerity of your invitation. With kind regards t() your wife and all our 
friends and comrades who may be with you, 

1 renuiin your affectionate uncle, 

W. L. HENDERSON 

Iowa, ('ity, Iowa, Oct. Jt. 1S!M. 
J. K. Simpson, secretary )?fli Iowa Infantry A.ssocnation, Sion.x ("ity Kt - 

union: — 

.My Dear (Nnnrade: Tlie nnder.signed was one of tlie storm-bnnnd at tlic 
time of the regular reunion two years ago and was unable, eveif by flanking 
the flood, to reach Sicmx" City in time to meet the comrades. I had therefore 
fuUj' intended to be with you at this Octt>ber meeting, but circumstances 
make it injpossible, to my great di.sappointment. I realize that we .shall not 
many times move look in each other's faces and grasp each other by the hand, 
and I therefore hope a ttood number of the regiment will ])e there to enjoy 
the privilege — the last opportunity for .some of the mendiers doubtless. Be as- 
sured tliat the abst^nt in body will l>o present in spirit. Please inform mc of 
my dues to the assocnation and send me a badge, if ])ossil)le. 

Fraternally, . J. W. RICH, 

Co. K, 10th Iowa Infantry. 

TVs Afoines, Aug. ■.'(), ]S!»|. 
Mr. J. E. Simp.son, Norfolk, Neb:— 

.My D(iar ('omradi> and Friend: Replying u> ymir favor August l.'itli. 1 



TWELFTH IOWA \ . \ . INFANTRY. ol 



sHiit j'ou II copy of fche Weekly Register Saturday, wliicli contains the princi- 
pal details of the ceremonies- of Iowa's Battle Flag Day. It was a great day, 
and we all regretted that you and tlie otlier absent comrades wen^ 
not present. 

I fear that a mistnke was made in calling tlie 12th Iowa I'euuion thi.s fall. 
The hoys talked it over when here on Flag Day, and the unajiinious opinioji 
was that tlie times are too liard for them to attend tiie reunion. I cannot 
attend for tlio reason that the campaign will be then in its hottest stage, but 
I will be tliere in spirit and hope that the comrades who do.ittend will have 
a splendid time. I had a .sliort editorial on Dr. Underwood's death and army 
service. whicJi you will find on the first page of the Register I sent you Satur- 
day. He was a good man, and y()u will well remember how .sympathetic lie 
was witli our boys during their ills and wounds of the war period. 

Mrs. Clarkson joins me i)i ki)idest regnrds. Ever Yours. 

K. P. CLARKSON. 

Coiiii'ade .1. E. Simpson. Secretary, (^tc. . and all the Comrades of the old 
J:2th Iowa Infantry: — 

My Dear Clomrades: I (^mnot express my regrets a.t not being able to 
meet with you at this our ."ith regimental reunion. I have always thought 
tiiat I wtmld never let aue of our i-eunio7is pass without being present. It 
seems, however, "that man proposes, but (-rod disposes." You will recollect 
that at our last, that I, together with a nundier of comrades, were unaVde to 
get farther tiian Ft. Dorlge on account of the terrible floods, and ,now I am 
again compelled by public duties to abandon the long cheri.shed hope of at 
this time again taking tlie hand of those dear comrades of the camp, the 
march, the battle field, and of tlie prison hells, whose memory I cherish with 
the fondest re(!ollections. 

Ah. dear comrades, ours was -.i gi-eat work, a work- that future genera- 
tions will appreciate even more tliaii the present, a work that we at the time 
could not fulh' comprehend, and now (although we are old, played out 
soldiers) caii but partially realize the stupendous conflict and the far reaching 
effects of which we as individuals each was a factor iij accomplishing. 
Although all was not done that might have been, yet we can be proud of the 
iv-cin-d that the J'2th Iowa was never called upon for a duty, not performed. 
Time files and we. the boys of ISfil, are growing old and soon must pass 
fro:n the stage of action and leave the great work so well begun in the hands 
nC our children and our children's chihlnin. 

It seems Init yesterday that we beardhiss Itoys shouldered the musket to for- 
ever silence that incomprehen.'sible principle of "State Rights." What that cost 
us is well shown as the roll is called by the answer of nun-e than one half of 
our oiiginal number, killed in battle, died in prison, died of woumls, died of 
disease, while a large per centage of the survivors report "'unfit for duty" on 
account of the wounds received in battle, and of disease c(uitiacted while in 
lint! (»f duty. 

Yes, we are gi'owing old. but our work is not done. While we lielped to 
make this tin* greatest nation on the face of tlu^ glolie. while we helped to 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



free it from that false claim, "as a nation of the free," and to place our flag on 
the very pinacle of fame, we must see too that our flag floats on the very 
pinacle of fame, we must see, too, that our flag floats from every school 
liouse in tlie land and that the rising generation inherits and imbibes that 
spirit of loyalty and patriotism which you learned during a four years of hor- 
rible and cruel war. 

In no way can this bo done better than by continuing these reunions. 
Count me in for any duty^ assigned and rest assured that next time I will be 
there. Report mo fc4iis time "Ab.sent, but accounted for." 

As ever your Comrade from 18(51 to 18(5."), 

ABNER DUNHAM, 
Company F, 12th Iowa Infantry. 

Ma(iuketa, Aug. sth, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson: — 

Dear Sir : I will say that I. K. (Jrane received your circular inviting 
him to the reunion of the 12th at Sioux City, and he bids me say to you that 
it will bo impossible for him to be there in the body as he can almost hear 
the last roll call. He has been sick all summer, and never will be able to 
march to the music of fife or drum in earth life more. But he will be with 
the boys in spirit, and if he should be freed from his suffering body will be 
with you in his spiritual body, free from all pain and suffering. He is suffer- 
ing from dropsy, brought on through rheumatism and heart trouble. His 
limbs have swollen until they are bursting, and he can hardly get hi? breath. 
Still he is cheerful and wishes the old 12th a good time, and if he has 
answered the last roll call on earth will be at your camp fire with you. He 
bids me say this for him, and I close hoping and wishing you a happy time. 
I subscribe myself, Your friend, his wife, 

MRS. I. K. CRANE. 

He says read to the boys if you wish. 

Dunkertou, October ath, 1894. 
Dear Secretary and Comrade : — 

It is with deep regret that I sit down to inform you that I shall not be 
able to be with you and the boys at the reunion, and I regret it the more be- 
cause I fear it will be the last opportunity I shall have of meeting with com- 
rades. I am now nearly 72 years old. If I drew a pension as most of the 
boys do, I believe I should go, but times are too hard with me. Give my 
love to all of the boys of the noble old 13th Iowa. God bless you all. May 
you all have a good time together. Truly yours, 

A. B. PERRY, 
Company E, 12th Iowa. 

No. 11 Edward Street, Chicago, III., Sept. 23, 1894. 
Dear Comrade Simpson :-- 

Comrade Weaver's circular per your favor came duly to hand. If I can 
go to Sioux City I will, but I am getting old and shaky now, and hesitate to 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. V. INFANTRY. 53 

trust myself iu a prohibition state any more. I hear the G. A. R. had a 
good time in Pittsburg. I didnt go — couldn't get a vacation this year from 
tlie Cliicago P. O., but one week from today lets me out. My resignation 
here takes effect October 1st. But times ax'e hard and money close, and I 
may not be able to attend at Sioux City. I have been an employe iu this P. 
O. since 1885, and am worn out. I shall go to the Soldiers' Home---not, per- 
haps, to Marshalltown, but to Dayton, Ohio. I may be entitled at Marshall- 
town, but I was for years at the Dayton home, am on furlough from there 
now, and there is more going on there— printing office (I am a printer), 
theatre, church, etc., and six thousand inmates— see? I hope that the dear 
old boys will have a good time at Sioux City, and with best wishes I reman. 

Your old comrade-in-arms, 

ALLEN M. BLANCHARD. 



Helena, Mont., Oct. 0th, 1894. 
Mr. E. B. Soper, Emmetsburg, lowa:-- 

My Dear Comrade: Your favor of September 38th just received, and am 
sorry to say that it will be impossible for me to attend the reunion at Sioux 
City. I am just now engaged in mining matters requiring my undivided at- 
tention. Were it not for that I would surely be with you, as you say it has 
been nearly thirty years since we last met, and I assure you that it is my wish 
to meet yourself and old comrades with aJiearty shake hands as soon as cir- 
ciimstances will permit. Please remember me kindly to all comrades. My 
heart is with you if I cannot be. With the best of wishes, 

I remain yours truly, 

W. L. LEE. 

Columbus, Ohio, Sept. 22nd, 1894. 
Mr. J. E. Simpson :-- 

Dear Comrade: I received your circular in regard to the reunion of the 
old 12th. I am so far away that it is pretty hard for me to attend the re- 
union. Nothing would please me better than to shake the hand of every sur- 
viving member of Compnay I, and in fact of all the 12th. I will do my 
utmost towards reaching Sioux City by the 10th of next month. To tell the 
truth of the matter I have been under the weather pretty bad lately, and my 
finance is low. I wish they had made it Dubuque or some town on the east 
side of the state. 

Please send me Sergeant Cotes' address. I know it is iu South Dakota, 
but forgot the town. I am trying for an increase of pension. Cotes was 
wounded at Tupelo when I was. He and Bill Koehler and I were in Cahaha 
together. And please send Koehler's address. I know it is Dubuque, but 
don't know the number or street. If you know Capt. Sumbardo's address 
please .send it also. I will send you a blank to till out as to my health before 
I was wounded if you can remember me. The youngest member of Com- 
pany I— the boy that had the preacher's suit, plug hat and all on the Tupelo 



54 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

rai(l---J;ick Stibbs, our colouel, remembers that? I remember, you bet. The 
rhimii thing came near being the eaiise of putting my light out. 
Your friend and comrade till death, 

JOHN DEVINE. 
Room 81, 152'.,, North High street. 

Kansas City, Mo., Sept. 39th, 1894. 
Captain .7. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Neb. : — 

Dear Comrade and Friend: Your very kind circular notifying me of the 
rennion of the grand old 13th Iowa to hand sometime ago. I have delayed 
answering up to this time, thinking I could make some arrangement to be 
with you, but I find it will be impossible for me to be there, as I have had 
no employment since April 1st; have been sick all the time. It is just as 
much as I can do to walk around, and am entirely out of funds. God only 
knows what I am to do. There is nothing on this earth that would give me 
more pleasure than to be once more with all the old comrades of the gallant 
12th Iowa that are still left on this earth. Grive all the comrades my very 
kindest regards and best wishes; tell them I hope we shall all meet hereafter 
in a better world than this. I sometimes see Comrade Comstock who runs 
between here and St. Louis on the Mo. P. railroad. I shall be pleased to 
hear from you often. Respectfully, your comrade and friend, 

N. E. DUNCAN, 
No, 8029, Locust street. 

Mount Hill, 111., Sept. 25th, 1894. 
Dear Comrade Siinpson:— 

I received your letter some time ago. I am sorry to say to you and 12th 
Iowa comrades that I can't be with you this time. I have sold my farm at 
O'Neill, Holt county, Neb., and bought a farm in Jefferson county, southern 
Illinois. I have bought me a fruit farm. I came here the first of August and 
I am well pleased with my new home. We are all well and the family like 
their new home. Tell the boys if they come down here next June, 1895, I 
will give them a job of picking strawberries. I have 10 acres to pick if there 
is no bad luck. I have nine hundred Ben Davis apple trees and a nice peach 
orchard, and one hundred bearing cherry trees, blackberries and raspberries. 
All kinds of crops are good here and lots of improved farms for sale ; prices 
from ^10, .fl5, $30 to PO per acre, and very healthy. Read this letter to the 
boys of Compnay H, 12th Iowa Infantry. WM. S. WISEGARBER. 

Randalie, Oct. 5th, 1894. 
Jno. N. Weaver, Sioux City: — 

Dear Comrade: Your circular of Sept. 12th lies before me; have reserved 
reply hoping I might be able to "report at roll call Oct. 10," but unless some- 
thing wholly unexpected occiirs I shall be one of the worst disappointed 
"boys" of the 12th Iowa, for I assure you, soldier gatherings are my special en- 
joyment, most particularly so the "boj-s" that permitted me to be a non-com- 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



bataiat for more than four years, and you cannot imagine how hard it is to 
say, "cannot be with you next week." I am not very old, nor gray-headed, 
but must be getting childish, for the tears spring to my eyes Jiow that I 
have written it. 

Can I better express my sincere regret? In the language of Col. Hender- 
P.OU: "A reunion of the 12th Iowa is a reunion of brothers, and a meeting of 
brothers without me is, to me, cruel." In the same letter the colonel writes 
that he is ".shaping matters so as to be at Sioux City." 

Oh. dear! must I yield the enjoyment of the eloquence of Henderson, 
the irreprassible anecdotes of Stibbs, the whole-souled greeting of Reed and 
Knee, the warm "shake" of yourself aud every comrade of the regiment, 
who may be so happy as to be there? And the old drum corps with their 
music that revived us so on so many weary marches. To the old color guard, 
who so bravely surrounded me with fixed bayonets that I dare not show the 
white feather, and every member of the gallant 12th, I send most fraternal 
greeting, and with that song prayer, "God be with you till we meet again," 
I am yours with sincere regi'et, H. J. GRANNIS. 

Waterloo , Iowa, Oct. 7th, 1894. 

A heart-full greeting to all my dear old comrades of the old 12th Iowa, 
who will assemble and meet together for a grand and glorious old hand- 
shaking and good visit at Sioux City. Oh, how I regret that I cannot be 
with you in the flesh, as I most assuredly will be in spirit. This has been an 
off year for me, having been out of employment for about half the time. I 
am finauically out of condition to incur the expense of the vacation and as I 
can now secure employment for a mouth or more I must improve the oppor- 
tunity of securing the necessary means to procure for my family the comforts 
of life for the on-coming winter, he)ice I must make this great personal self- 
denial and sacrifice. I sincerely hope there will be a goodly number of the 
old boys come together. I say old boys, for when we were together in the 
old 12th we were boys indeed, and it is as such I wish always to remember 
aud think of them. 

I regret to think that there are many of the boys who met here in Water- 
loo six years ago aud answered to the roll call, now answer on the other side 
of Jordan. I do not know how all the companies have fared, but relentless 
death has claimed three of the members of Company E. I have to report, 
and without cause or date, the death of John C. Jones, Alexander Myers aud 
John Ellwell. All were present at the meeting here except Comrade Ellwell, 
whom I have met but once since the war. He died in Chicago and was bur- 
ied in Elm wood cemetery of this city February, 1892, this having beeh his 
place of residence when he enlisted in the company as first lieutenant. 

I do not now remember how the membership in the association is kept 
up. Are the dues payable at each meeting of the regiment or is there but 
one payment for all time? Please inform me by letter in this regard. 

I would like a copy of the report of the proceedings of the meeting, as I 
presume there will be a goodly number of them printed for distribution 
among the boys. I sincerely hope there will not be such uproar amongst the 



3(> FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

elemeuts as there was two .years ago, which seemed ahuost like a conspiracy 
agaiust the old 13th Iowa to prevent a meeting. There are three members 
of the 12th residents of this town, viz: H. J. Harrison, Co. E; W. W. "White- 
neck, Co. D, and your sadly disapoiuted comrade who had lotted on a grand 
old time at this meeting. But again I say I hoj^e a goodly number of the old 
boys will meet together and have a jolly, happy time, and the blessing of a 
kind and beneticient Providence rule o'er all. 

Your sorely disappointed comrade, in F. , C. and L. , 

J. W. SHUMAKER, 

Freeport, Oct. 7, 1894. 
Dear Comrade James E. Simpson:--- 

I regret very much that I cannot meet you and the rest of the boys at 
Sioux City, as I have a little three-year-old girl to take care of and no one to 
look after my things here. Give my regards to the comrades. 
Yours truly in F., C. and L. 

G. W. KIRKLAND. 
In this I send SI. 00 for niv dues. 



Davenport, Iowa, Sept. 80, 1894. 
.f. E. Simpson :-- 

My Dear Comrade: I find it will be impossible for me to meet with the 
boys at their reunion Oct. 10 to 12. I would be pleased though if you will 
remember me to them one and all. I will be with them in thought if not in 
person. Sincerely yours, J. B. MOR(tAN. 

Lake Park, Minn., Oct. 1, 1894. 
Jno. N. Weaver, Vice-President Regimental A.ssociation 12th Iowa Inantry, 
Sioux City, lowa:-- 

Dear Sir and Comrade: I am sorry to inform you that I will be unable 
to attend the reunion at Sioux City, Oct. 10th to 12th next. With the best 
wishes for the success of the reunion, I am, Fraternally, 

HANS HANSON, 
Late 12th Iowa Infantry. 

Decorah, Iowa. Oct. 10th, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson, Secretary:— 

Dear Comrade: I am very sorry that I have to write you in place of see- 
ing you in per.son, but unforseen circumstances is the sole cause. I was 
called away up north on important business and did not return .until today. 
Knowing that you have an interesting and happy gathering I wish I wa.< 
with you, but my heart is with you. Greet me to the boys. (Tod ble.ss 
you all! Your comrade and friend, 

A. H. (4R0VES. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



Gaorgetowu, Custer county, Nebraska, Oct. 6th, 1894. 
John N. Weaver, Sioux City, Iowa:--- 

Mr. President, Dear Comrade: I have received circular notice and invi- 
tation to the reunion of the old 12th Iowa, for which I am thankful to you 
for. I have worked hard ever since the last reunion with the firm intention 
to meet my old comrades at the next reunion (this one), but I regret wtih 
pain and disappointment to say it will be imppossible for me to be with you 
this time. We have had the past season the worst drouth failure ever witnessed, 
and we have been having a succession of failures here; three drouth failures, 
and once I Was completely wiped out by hail, so that I have had but one 
crop out of five. My health has been poor, so that I have been constantly 
under medical treatment, so that I need not add that my financial circum- 
stances are ^such as to prevent me from having the long hoped for handshake i 
and hearty greeting I have so much longed for. And I assure you that it has 
not been neglect or indifference that has caused my delay in writing a few 
words so that if I cannot be present in person I will be there in spirit, but 
a lameness of my right arm and hand prevents me froui holding a pen so I 
can write more than a few words at a time. But I hope by the next reunion 
to be able to meet you all. Tell the boys I have forgotten none of them, and 
never will. And through you I send my hearty greeting and love to all. 

Your comrade, 

B. FRANK MORROW. 

Denver, Col., No. 40(5 16th street, Oct. 8, 1894. 

(greeting to the 13th Iowa veterans^ I had hoped to be one of the mem- 
bers to atte.id the reunion of the noble 13th Iowa at Sioux City. There is 
nothing that sends the blood coursing through my veins equal to the name of 
this regiment. Accept the best wishes of one that is interested in all com- 
rades that are left, and I trust this reunion will be one of the bright 
spots in your life. It has only been my pleasure to meet with you once and 
that was in 1884, if I mistake not, at Manchester. As you all know F. F. 
Laukins had baen dead about one year at that time. His death occurred in 
Denver, Col., August 17th, 1883. And I see a good many of the boys have 
answered to the roll call for the last time. Hoping you will all enjoy this 
reunion, belies'e me, I should so much love to be with you, but as it is impos- 
sible this time, will be next time, I think, hope to, at least, and if any of 
the 13th should come to Denver, nothing would be of more pleasure to me 
than for them to come and see me. Hoping to hear good reports from you 
soon. I am as ever, Your true friend and comrade, 

MRS. J. W. PETTEE, nee Lankins. 

P. S. ---My present husband was a member of the 57th Illinois regiment. 

Manchester, Iowa,, Aug. lOh, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson, Secretary 13th Iowa Infantry Reunion :-- 

Dear boys of the i3th: Though absent am with you in spirit; fond 
greetings; God be with you until our next reunion. 

GEO. H. MORRISEY. 



-)8 FIFTH REUNION OF THE 

Cottage 9, Soldiers' Home, Quiucy, 111., Oct. 9, 1894. 
Mr. J. E. Siuipson aud 12th Iowa: — 

Dear Comrades: I received j'-our kind invitation to attend tlie reunion 
the 10th to 12th iust. 

I am very sorry I can not meet with yon, bnt it is not possible for me to 
attend on account of my finances. My check will reach me too late to' at- 
tend the, reunion. I wish you all a good time. 

Truly our ranks in the 12th Iowa are thinning and we can have but a 
few more reunions here, but there is a time coming when we can have a 
grander reunion than any of these, if we all live as faithful to our God as we 
did for our country, and fight the good fight of faith, we will have one of the 
grandest reunions in heaven we have ever had. I am trying every day to 
live a christian, and as I cannot be with you I request you to take a vote of 
the boys aiid report to me the number that are trying to serve God and make 
their home in heaven, where all is peace and joy forever. Please do this for 
my pleasure at least. I want to say here that I have not spent my pension at 
the saloon (God forbid), but I have spent it in helping to build a United 
Brethren church in this city and for other benevolent purposes. I want you 
to know that I have not squandered my money as some of the boys have done 
in our home. 

We have thirty-eight boys in our cottage aud eight of us are trying to 
fight the good fight of faith and gain a home in heaven. I trust the few 
that used to hold prayer meetings in the army are still attending and enjoying 
prayer meetings. If any have gone astray let them return as the prodiagal 
of old did. We then had to fight the enemy of our country and our soul too. 
Now we have to fight the enemy of our soul, and that is whisky. Thous- 
ands are' going to ruin every day in Quincy. This is all. Write an tell me 
about the reunion. How many were there? Give me their addresses and I 
will write to them. Love to all, 

LAWRENCE LOTT 
To the 12th Iowa. 

Superior, Neb., Oct. 9, 1894. 
Dear Comrades:— 

I started to come to the reunion and got as far as Superior and I learned 
it would cost me full fare to come, and times are so hard and money so scarce 
that it is impossible for me to get there. I understood it was only half fare 
till I got to the depot. I am very sorry that I cannot be there. I saw A. (t. 
Davenport this morning and he said to send his respects to all the old boys, 
aud we hope that the next time will be able to get there. 

PETER KEARNS, 
A. G. DAVENPORT. 

Holmes City, Douglas County. Minn., Oct. 7th, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Neb. :— 

Dear Comrade: Your circular of Sept. 10 duly received. I have always had 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 59 

an ardent desire to attend a reunion of the 12th Iowa, but the distance and 
financial circumstances always so far intervened. My personal appearance 
can therefore not be witli you only by letter of regret. 

Very truly, L. LEWIS, 

Late Co. I, 12th Iowa Infantry. 

Magnolia, O., Sept. 12, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson, Esq. , Noi-folk, Neb. :--- 

Dear Sir and Comrade: It was with mingled feelings of pleasure and re- 
gret that I perused your circular letter of invitation to attend the fifth reunion 
of the 12th Iowa Volunteer Infantry— pleasure that I was still held in re- 
membrance by my comrades-in-arms, and regret that circumstances would 
not permit me to be present with them on that occasion. I, as well as the 
rest of the one time "Boys in Blue," am getting old--too old to take so long 
a trip, much as I would love to meet once more those with whom I bore arms 
during those trying years. But few more such privileges will be accorded 
us, but there will be a grand review beyond at which I trust we may all pass 
muster. 

Hoping that you who are present may enjoy the meeting to the fullest, I 
assure you that my thoughts will be with you. Yours fraternally, 

A. BROTHERS. 

Soldiers' Home. Hot Springs, S. D. , Oct. 11, 1894. 
J. E. Simp.son:— 

• Cannot come to reunion; not able; my best wishes to you all.. 

EMERY CLARK. 

St. Edwards, Neb., Oct. 4th, 1894. 
J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Neb. :— 

Dear Comrade: It is with the deepest regret that this will have to substi- 
tute «iy personal attendance at this reunion of the 12th Iowa. 

I shall be with you in spirit and with my best wishes for the happiness 
of the comrades of the old 12th Iowa, hoping you will have a pleasant time. 
I will bid you good bye until our next reunion. Yours truly, 

■ W. H. ELLISON, 
Company K, 12th Iowa V. V. I. 

Ponca, Oct. 9, 1894. 
C'omrades of the 12th Iowa: — 

It is with the deepest feelings of regret that I write you of my inability 
to be present with you at this, your fifth reunion. I have anticipated great 
pleasure in meeting with you once more, but hard times presses me so 
closely, and not being a pensioner, I am unable to be present. My wife, who 
is a member of the Woman's Relief corps sends kind greetings and many re- 
grets, that she cannot be with you. 



CO FlFTJl REUNION OF TITP^ 



Hoping uothiug will occiir to mar the hiippiuess of yonr reunioii I wish 
you nil ;m eujoyable fciine, and may God's blessing rest upon you all. 
I am fraternally yours in F. C. and L. , JAMES P. COOK, 

Company E, J 2th Iowa. 

Gila Bend. Ariz., Aug. 14th. 18!U. 
J. E. Simpson, Secretary Reunion Committee:— 

Dear Sir: In reply to your circular of the 5th iust. will say that it will 
be %'ery doubtful if I can enjoy the pleasure that a meeting with you all, the 
survivors of the glorioiis old 12th, would give. However, should it become 
possible you may rest assured I will be on hand. I can only say that I will 
write j'ou later. Be sure and send me list of all whd attend, should I not be 
there. Very truly, etc. , . L. KALTENBACH. 

Barron, Wis., October -Oth, 1894. 
To my Comrades of the i2th Iowa:--- 

It is a disappointment to have to pen these few lines of regret at not be- 
ing able to be with you. When I received the circular letter of Comrade J. 
N. Weaver, for I did not receive tlie first circular, I expected to be with you 
today ; but my son, who is my helper in this office, was taken very sick a few 
days ago. So it is impossible to get away. Hoping you may have a very 
pleasant reunion and a large gathering is the wish of Mr. and Mrs. W. A. 
Kent. 

p_ s. — Some of the comrades present may remember that my wife asked 
the comrades to sign their names in her album two years ago at the reunion. 
We would like a list of the names present, so we can add them. 

Comrade Weaver, I will send you a paper containing the write up of our 
town by an Iowa man— of course it will be well done. 

Yours in F. , C. and L. , W. A. KENT. 

Crab Orchard, Cumberland Co., Tenn., Aug. 14, 18i)4. 
J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Neb. :— 

Dear Comrade: I received yours of August 1, 1894, seijding me an invi- 
ation to be present at the 12th Iowa reunion at Sioux City, Oct. 10, 11 and 
12. There is nothing that would please me so well as to meet the old boys 
and have a good haudvShake, for I know that we would have a magnificent 
time, and it hurts me to think that it will be impossible for me to be there. 
I am so far away and haven't got much to go on in this world, but I want 
you when you go there and meet the boys to tell them of me, tell them that 
I am living in the state that we done some pretty hard fighting in war times. 
Tell them if they haven't all enlisted under the bloodstained banner of King 
Bmanual to enlist now, and we will make a good fight, and we will meet in 
that great fort on high. You will have a good time at Sioux City and may 
the Lord bless you all. Yours in F. , C. and L. , 

M. TARPENNING. 

Let me hear from vou after the reunion. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. Y. INFANTRY. (il 

Pleasantou, Kan., Aug. 26, 1894. 
Comrade Siiupsou: — 

111 reply I will say I received notice of our reaniou to be held at Sioux 
City, Oct. 10 to 12. and will say that I -will try to be there, but it is unfor- 
tunate for us living in Kansa.s, as we can get no rates. But I shall be there 
I tlliiik. No more at the present, I rdinain as ever, 

Your comrade nnd friend, ISAAC JOHNSON, 

P. O. Box 18 J. 

Reo., Mich., Aug. 11th, 1894. 
Dear Comrades:--- 

Your communication at hand. I am sorry that poor health and want of 
means will keep me from attending your reunion. Believe me, my heart is 
with our boys, and I remember with pleasure all of the 12th Iowa. I have 
the drum on which I played at Fort Henry and Shiloh. Yours ever, 

SUMNER HARTSHORN. 

Vancouver Barracks, W. T., Sept. 28th, 1894. 
Jno. M. Weaver, Vice President 12th Iowa Association, Sioux City, Iowa:— 

My Dear Sir and Comrade : I write you this to acknowledge my receipt 
of two circular letters— one from Comrade Capt. J. E. Simpson at Norfolk, 
Nebraska, dated Augu.st 1st, 1894, and the other from 3'ourself---both inviting 
all the comrades to attend the fifth reunion of the old 12th Iowa at your fair 
fity on Oct. 10 to 13, at which time the Inter-state fair will be held there. 

I hereby return my sincere thanks to Capt. Simpson and yourself for the 
favor of the notices. But I greatly regret to have to inform you that it is 
utterly impossible for me to avail myself of the great pleasure that it would 
give me to meet with friendly greeting all the old comrades of the gallant 
old 12th Iowa at' Sioux City at the time designated. Incident to recent gen- 
eral orders from the secretary of war, discontinuing the ordinance depot at 
this station, (and at which place I am stationed on duty) and for the 
shipment of all the military stores, ammunition, etc., as soon as practica- 
ble to the Benicia Arsenal. Benicia, Cal. , my services are now and will yet 
be at the date of the reunion pressingly needed to prepare the stores for 
shipment. So you can easily perceive that I have my hands full of business 
at the present time. 

. Notwittistauding the comrades are now well advanced in years, and al- 
most 30 years has elapsed since the government ceased to need their services 
and they returned to their homes to engage in their various pursuits in life, 
and many are scattered far distant apart throughout our great country. But 
they still continue strongly annimated with their old patriotism and a loving 
devotion of comradeship, likened to a sort of free masouary of peace and 
good will among all the members, one for another. God bless every member 
is my earnest wish. And I fondly trust that kind providence will favor me 
to meet with them at the next reunion. I have but one year and a half 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



longer to serve until I will bo placed on the honored roll of the retired list 
of tlie army with a liberal pay for my support. Yours in C, F. , L. , 

ROBERT WILLIAMS, 
Late Capt. Co. E, 12th Iowa Infantry Vounteeers. 
Please send uio a copy of the proceedings, and also the reigmental history 
if completed, and state the price and I will forward yon the money as sftcm 
as I receive them. R. W. 

Lincoln, Neb., Oct. 7th, 1894. 
Maj. D. W. Reed, President, Sioux City, Iowa : --- 

My Dear Major, and all the brave Comrades of the Gallant I'^th Iowa : 
The time is near at hand for our fifth reunion, and I see ud way for me to be 
present with you. It gives me pain and sadness to think that I must be de- 
urived of so great a pleasure, but financially I am unable to respond. But I 
assure you that my heart is with you, my sympathies are with you, and 
I most earnestly hope that your meeting together will be a joyous one. 

As I grow older I seem to be drawn nearer and nearer to the boys who 
wore the blue from '(il to '6(i, and more and more do I admire and prize and 
appreciate the grand old flag we held aloft on many a hard fought field, and 
for which we offered our lives as it sacraflce again, and again, to prevent 
treason's hand from tearing away one single star from its field of azure blue. 
No name so dear, or that sends up such a thrill to my heart as •' Old Glory."' 
All! ifstlie flag of my country: the flag of our Union: the emblem of liberty, 
and may God bless and protect, and keep her '• afloat in the skies till time 
shall be no more," is the response of every liberty-loving, loyal, patriotic citi- 
zen of our great nation. 

Comrades, when I am laid away in tlie narrow tomb. I want no broad- 
cloth robes— I care little for flowers— but I do want to be draped with the 
precious folds of •• Old Glory," entwined about either arm. and her untarn- 
ished stars about my neck and on either shoulder. I want my loyal sons to 
look for the last time upon their sire in this robe of loyalty and patriotism, 
to impress their hearts with a lasting lesson of love to country and devotion 
to its flag. § 

Yes, give me '"Freedom's Starry emblem, boys," to be my winding sheet. 
Let my soul take its flight from the star-robed clay .below to its celestial 
homeamidst the stars above. 

And now old comrades I must l)id you good-bye. I .so much wish I might 
meet you all once more and grasp again the loyal hands that carried the 
deadly steel into the thickest of the flght, but 1 fear I cannot. One by one. 
like autumn leaves, we are falling, seared by the frosts of time. 

May (Jod deal kindly with you all and each of you deal kindly with your- 
.selves. by being as loyal to your God as you have been to your country, is the 
heartfelt desire of your old comrade. 

.JAMES F. ZEDlKEPv. 
Formerly of Co. I. 12th Iowa Inffy.. 
:U Q St.. Lincoln. Neb. 



TWELFTH IOWA Y. Y. INFANTRY. (53 



t^ostetT^ of IVLembers. 



Roster of members of tlie 12 Iowa Y. A'. Infantry, so far as known at 
llie Time of This Reunion. 

FIELD AND STAFF. 

Colonel— J. H. Stibbs, Room 88, P. O. Building, Chicago, 111. 
Lt. Colonel— S. G. Knee, Colesburg, Iowa. 

Major— S. 1). Brodtbeck, li:} >outli Broadway, Los Angeles, Cal. 
Major— E. M. Van Duzee, St. Paul, Minn. 

Major— I). W. Reed, Suite 814 Chamber of Commerce, Cliicago, III. 
Surgeon— C. C. Parker, Fayette, Iowa. 
Ass't Surgeon— W. H. Finley, Franklin, Neb. 
Ass't Surgeon — James Barr, Roseburg, Ore. 
Adjutant— N. E. Duncan, No. 3029 Locust St., Kansas City. Mo. 
Adjutant— S. R. Burch. Olathe, Kansas. 
Quartermaster— G. 11. Morrisey, Manchestor. Iowa. 
Quartermaster— H. C. Morehead, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Chaplain — Rev. Frederick Humphrey, St. John Rectory, Havre de Grace Md 
Hospital Steward— Rev. J C. H. Hobbs, Salem, Neb. 
Hospital Stewart— J. J. Walker, De Witt, Missouri. 
Com. Sergt. — James Evans, Dubuque, Iowa. 

Sergt. Major— A. J. Rodgers, Corner 28th St. and Wabash Ave., Chicago, 111. 
Fife Major— D. S. Martin, Iowa Falls, Iowa. 

Fife Major— S. M. French, Denver, Col.— Leader the Geo. W. Cook Drum 
Corps. No. 3050 Downing Ave. 

COMPANY A. 

Armstrong, B A., Liscomb. la. Brother, A., Magnalia, Starke Co O 

iiird, G. M., Hlinois. Bell, Thos. R., Iowa Falls, la. 

Bowers, I. H., Eldora, la. Brown, S. B., Jewell City. Kan. 

Cougar, J. IX.Kldora, Hardin Co., la. Clarkson, R. P., Des Moines. la. 

Cromwell. T. C . Oakland. la. Combes, E. C, Hanover, 111. 

Cobb, G. H., Eldora, la. ^Crist, Job, Marshalltown, la. 

Dobbins, Hiram, Jewel Co.. Kan. Dobbins, Levi, Eldora, la. 

Edgington. T. B., IS Madison St., Ferree, S. R., Belle Plaine, la. 

Memphis, Tenn. Fountain, Francis. 

Glass. Haskins. G; H., Marvville, Mo. 

Hunter, J. R. C, Webster, la. Haywood, W. P., Lyons, la. 

Hobb, Pvev. J. C. H., .Salem Neb. B^ach, B. D., Eldora, la. 

Jackson, Samuel, Oregon. Kidwiler, M., Mo. 

Kellogg. R. E , Dows, la. - Kemp, Sumner, Alden, la. 



ti4 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



Macy, Seth, Des Moines, la. " 
Mann, A. J.. Perry, 111. 
Moore, G. W., Maryvillo, Mo. 
Miller. Zabina. 

ivriteliell, G. W., Lawn Hill, la. 
Heed, (J. W.. Yarkie, Mo. 
Rulo, (t. \V., South lienri, Inrl. 
Runkle, C. M . Plankinton, S. D. 
Sawin. E. S.. Fnioii. la. 
Welsh, Nathan. 
Webb, A. E.. Eldora, la. 
Zieu'er. N. \V.. Eldora. la. 



McPherson, W. G., Millbank, S. 
Moore, W. W.. Manchester, la. 
Mann, Win.. Steamboat Hock, 
Martin, I). S., Iowa Falls. la. 
]'ai'isii, William, 
Richards, ,Ios., lioone. la. 
Richards, William. 
Sprague, K. S., Fremont, NHi. 
-•Vvilson, T. H., llobertson, la. 
Walker, Samuel, De Witt, Mo. 
Wickman, A. J., Ea<?le City, la. 
Zieger, .1. W.. P^ldora. la. 



COMPANY U. 

Captain Williard C Earle WauUon, Ja. 

Captain .1. P Jackson XMlla^e Creek, la. 

Second Lieut. J. 1). Cole Lansin^f, la. 

Seryt. Major A. J. Hodgers, Corner 2.sth St. and ^Val)ash Ave , Chicago, 111. 

First Sergt. ( Jeo. Ibach Preston, Minn. 

Sergt. Elias Repp 

Sergt. Henrv Fry Penn. 

Seigt. W. P. Winter .' iiancroft, la. 

Sergt. John ITpstrom 40.3 4th St., Sioux Falls, S. I). 

Sergt. R. I^>. Sargent Kansas. 

Corp"l. II. Goodrich 

Corp'l Stephen Thibeda Wjuikon, la. 

•Corp'l. Robert Wampler AVaukon, la. 

Corp'l. A.slak Larson Preston, Minn. 

Corp'l. Fred Monk , . Eitzen. Minn. 

Corp'l. L. D. Rearce Onawa, la. 

Corp'l. M Englehorn Kas. 

Corp'l. W B. Port Viroqua, Wis. 



Adams. O. F. 

liartlett, F. C, Denver, Col. 

Bailey. W. F., St. Paul. Minn 

P.i'ock. Gustavus. 

Burnham. H. 

Churchill. L. I'>. # 

Candee, Geo. 

Decker, Adam, Lansing, la. 

fowling, John, Rex, la. 

Ericksen, E. A.. Salem, S. D. 

Feidt, John. 

Goody koonts, D V., Bftone. la. 

Iverson, Knud, Lansing, la. 

Jones, Henry. 

Johnson, Lewis. 

K Hudson, Hans. 

Lewis. Edward. 

McCabe, Hugh, Waukon, la. 

McKay, Frank. 

McDonald, James. 

Ogan, Chas. C . Sii^lev. la. x^ 



*=^ 



Oleson. Barnhart. 

Petei-son.- Bore. 

Peck. Jolin P., Plankinton, S. D. 

Pratt. M. H . Spokane Falls, Wash. 



-Andrews, H. R., Turkey River, la. 

Bajley, (Jeo. N., St. Paul. Minn. 

Bathen, Robt., Riceville. Minn. 

liort. A. K.. Viro([ua, Wis. 

P.urlingarae. O. D.. inas. Water St . 
Chicago. II 

Castellar, Frank. 
'Dowling. Thos., Rossville. la. 

Edward ■J, Isaac. 

Ettle. George. Waukon, la. 

Greenap, S. H., Motley, Minn. 

Hawkins, Hiram. 

Isted, 1. B. S., Milwaukee. Wis. 

Jennings, D. P. 

Klees, Frank, Rossville. la. 

Larkins. Rees N. 

Larson, Kensil. 

McGuire, Brian. Freeport. 111. 

McClintock, Jas.. Rossville. la. 

Noyes, Alonzo. 
.Oleson, Ole. 

O] e.m )irr4^4iii^Sprl ng Grove. Minn. 

Porter, John B. 

Plank, Levi. Lake de Funiak, Fla. 

Pratt. R. (J.. Storm Lake. la. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



t)5 



Russell, Chas., Brooklyn. Mo. 

Scliiffhauer, Rich. 

Smith, Ira J. 

Stecker, Wni. 

Thayer, Jesse. 

Woodmansee, Isaac, Rossville, la. 

VVarberg,()le B., Spring Grove, Minn. 

Wert Augnstiis II. West 



Roe, Charles E. 

Stortz, Joseph. 

Smith, C. S., North McGregor, la. 

Sanner, Michael F., Rossville, la. 

Wood, Edwin W. 

Wood, Stephen. 

Wilber, Robert. 



Note:— Total number of (Company, 132; of whom reported dead, 42; disability during 
service, ^0; from wounds, 4; wounded in action, 3.t ; taken prisoners .\i>ril 6, '62, at Sliiloli, Tenn., 
.■)(!; ivillcd ill action, 3. 

COMPANY C. 

Captain (ieo. W. Cook Medicine Lodge, Kan. 

Captain David W. Reed (Major 12th Iowa) 

Suite 814, Chamber of (Jommerce, Chicago, 111, 

Captain W m. L. Henderson Cresco, la. 

First Lieut. David B. Henderson (Col. 4Hth Iowa) Dubuque, la. 

First Lieut. Henry J. Grannis Kandalia, la. 

Mrs. J. W. Pettee (Nee Lankins) No. 406 Kith St. Denver, Col. 

First Sergt Jer F. Hutchins (Capt. Co. E . 12th la.) Minneapolis," Minn. 

Sergt. Gilbert Hazlett Allison, la. 

Sergt. Emery Clark, (put in Co. B, Soldiers' Home) Hot Springs, S. D. 

Sergt. James Stewart West Union, la. 

Sergt. Philo R. Woods '. Fayette,. la. 

.Sergt. Phineas R. Ketchum West Union, la. 

Sergt. Frank VV. Moine Strawberry Point, la. 

Corp'l. Geo L Durno Springvllle, la. 

Corp'l. James Barr (Ass't. Sergt. 12th la.) Roseburgh, Ore. 

Corp'l. John W. liysong West Point, Neb. 

Corp'l. Joseph D. Baker Montividio, Minn. 

Corpl. (ieo. E. Comstock Fayette, la. 

Corp'l. Henry C. Curtis Lemars, la. 

Cori)"l. John A. Delezene Rock Rapids. Minn. 

Corp'l. William H. Jordon . . .-. Cheney. Wash. 

Corp'l. Ainos K. Ketchum Clarion, la. 

Corp'l. John E. Kent Belle Plaine, la. 

Corp'l. I. W. King Emerick, Neb. 

Musician Sumner Hartshorn Dundee, Mich. 



Abbott, Edward J., Garden Grove, Cal 
Beck, Samuel C, Waverly, la. 
Ballinger, John W., Lacy, la. 
Bn^wn, .lohn T. 
Brown, Geo , Woodstock. III. 
Burroughs, Geo. A.. Douglas, Ta. 
Barton, Alvah H. 
Barr, Henry. Tama County, la. 
Carmichael, Jas. H., lUyria, la 
Comstock, Frank, St. Louis, Mo. 
Clark, Henry, Melborne. la. 
Connor, Samuel, Maxwell, la. 
Davis, Jay C, Wis. 
Davis, A. J., Berrian Spring, Mich. 
Forbss, David, Elgin. la. 
Gillman, Ezekiel D.. 2Tth la. 
Hazlett, John B., Sioux Fails, S. D. 
Ilendershot, Thos . Plainview, Neb. 



Barnes, Jas. (transfer from 27). 
Benjamin, Nathan, drafted. 
Bennetield, Wm., substitute. 
Bowers, Wm. H., Limestoneville. Pa. 
Becktell, David T., Volga City, la. 
Brant, Allen, (transfer from 27) 

Fairbanks, la. 
Browsley, Wm., drafted. 
Card, Silas B. 

Carrington, Chas., Rock Branch, la. 
Canfleld, Theron P., 27th la., 

Buffalo Grove, la. 
Dawson, John, 27th la. 
Delezene, Benj., Republic City, Kan. 
Giflford, Simeon, Douglas. la. 
Hill, Benj. J. 

Hamlin, Lyman S , Oelwein, la. 
Husted. Jacob M. 



(it; 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



Honselbecker: Henry. liluffton. la. Henderson. Jas A.. 2Ttli la . 

Hinkel. Edward. VVinfield. la. CIverokee. la 

Hamlin. Wm. A.. Crawford. Neb. Hill. .Tohn \V. 

.lordon. Isadore L., Alton. K;in. Jewell. Jas. E.. 2Tth la. 

Jaques. Luther. Crawford. Neb. Jackway. G. IL. 2Tth la.. Laniont. la. 

Jones. Geo. M.. Drafted. Kent. Wm. A.. Barron. Wis. 

Kelsey. E. A.. Tripoli. la. Kelley. Artemns. 

Lattimer. Geo. 11 . West (rate, la. Little. James. 

Lyons, Wm A.. West Union, la. Lott. Lawrence. .Soldiers" Home, 

Lattimer, Robt. Z., Fayett, la. Quincy. Hi. 

Mattocks. .lason L.. Minneapolis. Minn. Munojer, Albert P., Cowlitz. Wasli. 

Mattocks. Ross. Wadena, la. McUall, Daniel E . Culver. Kan. 

McCall. John W.. Xemaha. Neb. Muchmore, .Stephen D.. 2Tth. 

Martin, Chas. I . 2Tth. Horton. la. Pitts. Jas.. Drafted. London. Kan. 

Patterson. Samuel W.. 2Tth Pricket, Jolin L.. Drafted . 

Proctor. Geo. W . 2Tth. Lawrens. la Quivey. Wm. W.. Pierce, Neb. 

Rod^rers. Reuben F.. VVaucoma, la. Rockwell. Wm. R.. drafted. 

Rodolph, John J. Stone, Daniel. Waucoma. la. 

Spears, Niles H , West Gate, la. Strong, John P.. Schuyler, Neb. 

Smith, Jacob R., Ft Smith, Ark. Saulsbury. .Fohn. Ivanhoe, Kan. 

Sykes, Orvis, Freeport. 111. Sprowls. John. 

Sherbune. Daniel. Tatro. Autj.. Clermont. la. 

Utter, Albert. Sycamore. 111. Verdin, Isaiah C. 

Williams. Rudolph, West Union, la. Warner, Walter B . Clermont, ia. 

CO .M PA NY D. 

Roster of the Survivors of Company 1). 12 Regiment Iowa Volunteer 
Infantry, revised and corrected by Captain E. B. .Soper. Emmetsburgh. Iowa: 

Col. .John H. Stibbs Room 88. P. O. Building, Chicago. 111. 

Captain Hiel Hale Yuma. Ariz. 

Captain E. B. Soper Emmetsburg. la. 

Captain John M. Clark t Springfield, la. 

Lieut. Homer C. Moorhead Cedar Rapids, Hi. 

Lieut Eli King Washington. Kan. 

Lyman M. Ayers, Cedar Rapids, la. Isaac G. Clark. 

Edwin A. Buttolph. Cedar Rapids. Ia. Ferdinand Dubois. Charter Oak. Ia. 

William Bumgardiner. Scranton. Ia. Herman Elgin. Bolen. 

Sylvester R. Burch. Olathe. Kan. Wf)rth county. Ia. 

Edwin H Bailey, Freedonia. Kan. James D. Ferner, Nevada, la. 

Henry W. Bailey, Kirkman. Ia. Samuel IT. Flint, care ButTalo, 

Allen M. Blanchard. Soldiers" Home. (Glucose Co.. Leavenworth. Kan. 

Dayton. O. 

John W. Burch. Cedar Junction. Perry Gephart. Lake Forest. 

.Johnson countv. Kan. Cook count v. 111. 

A. C. Blood. Herman Grass. 816 Tth S. St.. 

M. H. McElroy. Percival, la. Fargo. N. D. 

Thomas J. Lewis, Cedar Rapids. Ia. Irdill W. Hollar. Forest ville. 

William L. Lee. P. O. box 844. Sonoma county. Cal. 

Helena. Mont. Robinson L. Johnson. Sanford. 

Bentley Luse, West Liberty, la. Keya Paha county. Neb. 

Jas. H. Little. Mt. Carmel. 111. John Luther. Norton. 

Richard S Martin. Norton county. Kan. 

Alpheus H. McEntyre. Frank Renchin. Pratt. 

B. Frank Morrow. Georetown. Steel county, Minn. 

Custer county. Neb. Jesse H. Ross. Villa Park. Colo. 
O. H. Maryett. Del Norte. Dudley E Stedman. Vinton. Ia. 

Rio Grande county. Colo. .Josiah Scott. Shellsburg. la. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



()T 



David W. Minor, Areata, 

I Imn bolt county, Cal. 
Nathan G. Price. Jewel City, Kan. 
J. Y. George Price, 

Mountain Grove, Mo. 
Theodore L. Prescott. 
Howard Panorburn. Falouse, 

\Vliitman county, Wash. 
Dennis C Quigley, Plover, la. 
John W. Rowan, Yintoii, la. 
Henry W. Ross. Campbell, 

Franklin county. Neb. 
Angus W. Brown. 
Dennis Conlev, Davenport. la. 
Jas. L. Cowell. Walla Walla, Wash. 
Charles W. Clark, Cedar Rapids, la. 
Jolin M. Carson, Grinnell, la. 
Robert C. Cowell, Bayard, 

iGuthrie conty, la. 
James C. Daily. Thayer, 

York county. Neb. 



Roswell K. Soper, Estherville, la. 
Joseph O. Start well, Marion, ta. 
Aaron A. Steward, Carthage, Mo. 
Daniel Sivetts. Sublett, 

Adair county. Mo. 
J. M. Tarpenning, North ville, 

Cumberland county. Tenn. 
Frank D. Thompson, Nevada, la. 
William H. Trowbridge. 
William M. Yen Emmon, 

Norfolk. Neb. 
John J. Whittam. 
Jasper Wagner, Rome City, 

Nobles county, Ind. 
William W. Whiteneck, Waterloo, la. 
John Watrobek, Cottersville, 

St. Charles county. Mo. 
John J. Wyatt. O'Clair, Wis. 
John N. Weaver, attorney at law, 

Sioux City, la. 
Hiram F. Cooper. Littleport, la. 



COMPANY E. 



Boone. W G., Scott, Ta. 
Reckwith, W. \\., Parkersburg, la. 
Bird, E., Wlnterset, la. 
Helton, .Fas , Batavia, 

Todd county, Minn. 
Cook. Chas., Lester, la. 
-Crowhurst, Seth J., Salem, S. I). 
Cook. J. P., Ponca, Neb. 
Early. T. M., Bristow, la. 
Hamilton. Wm., La Porte City. Ta. 
Harrison, IT. J., Waterloo, la. 
Large. F. A , La Porte City. la. 
Maigretz, J S.. Hitesville. la. 
Minium. David. T^ig Gioves, la. 
l^errv. A. B., Dunkertou. la 
Rich, J. W., Iowa City. la 
Stewart, Joel .X., Oregon City. Ore. 
Seeber, G. L., Saliula, Ta. 
Switzer, C. R., Lewis, la. 
Smith, Harvey, Waterloo. la. 
Shumaker. John. Waterloo. Ta. 
Strong, Ezra., ^lational Citv. Cal. 
Shaver, W C. , Utter. Mo. 
Williams, Captain Roberts, 

Yancouver, Was. 



Biller, A. J , Waterloo, la. 
I^oylon. Thos , Stockton, Kan. 
Bird. R. L., Yuma, Cal. 
Collins. C. P , Charles City, la. 
Creighton, David, Geneva, la. 
Cook, Josepli, New Castle. Neb. 
Cook, vSylvester, New Castle, Neb. 
Church, Nathan, Webster City or 

Eagle Grove, la. 
Eberliart. Ben. E., Marshaltown. la. 
Graham, Jacob, Davenport, la. 
Hay ward, C B., Mooreville. la. 
Morris, C. D , Canton. S. D. 
Ochs. < harles, Ackley, la. 
Reed. Zeff, Bard, Louisa County, la. 
Surf us. C. Y., Bristow, la. 
Sunderlin, M. Y. B, Janesville. la. 
Schrack. David, Oelwin, la. 
Sharp. Oliver, Finchford, la. 
Sawyer, E , La Porte City, la. 
Shrover. Nathaniel. Tainter, Ta. 
Talbot. Allen E.. Orleans, Ind. 
Watkins, Isaac, Crawfordsville. Ind. 
WeU, D.'F., Theon, Wa.sh. 



COMPANY F. 



"V. 



Ainsworth. J. E., 714 1st. Ave.. 

Council Bluffs, la. 
• Breraner, John, Yankton. S. D. 
lirown. Eugene. Brush Creek. la. 
Coolidge, F. W.. Sho Shone. Ida. 
Dunham. Abner. Manchester, la. 
Davison. Wm.. Siam, la. 



Annis, Geo. W..' Lanark, 111. 
Buckman, Wm. H.. Dyersville, la. 
Correll. Ed.. Greeley. la. 
Coolidge, C. L., Central City, Neb. 
Dahl, John A., Silver Creek. la. 
Eld ridge, J. E.. Stark. Kan. 
Eldridge. R. C, Niagara Falls. N. Y. 



<)8 



FIFTH RET X ION OF THE 



Eaton. John J., Edgowood. la. 
French. S. M.. leader (J. W.Cook Drum 
Corps. .'3050 Dowing Ave. .Denver. Col. 
(Joodel. VVni. II.. Manehester, la. 
Ilalthill. Josiah. Wood Center. la. 
.Johnson, Isaac. Pleasinton. Kan. 
Kent. George, Oelwein. la. 
Kirchner, Mike. 

Lee, .John F.. Council (Jrove. Kan. 
Mackey. II. F., Maynard, la. 
Mann.. Wni. W. . Uanelsburg. Iseb. 
Nelson, T. C. Ha/.elton. la. 
Preston, II. M. . Ft. Dodge, la. 
Peasley, R. 11.. Kansas. 
Steeii. C. C. . Minneapolis. Kan. 
Stribling, C. C . Clifton, Tenn. 
Thorn. Chris. Waverly, la. 
Tibbetts, W. F.. Cheney, Kan. 
Weeden. R. L. . Nugents Grove. la. 
Woolridge, G. W.. Elkport. la. 



Girton. Joseph S., Hazelton, la^^^ 
Gift, J. W.. 900 Main 8t., Peoria. 111. 
Grice. A. .1.. Doniphon, Neb. 
Ilasbrouck. D. H.. Prairie Creek. la. 
Kaltenbach. SanVl.. Manchester, la. 
Kaltenbach. L. P.. Gila l^end. Ariz. 
Kaster. 11 Irani. Manchester, la. 
Lee. .las. F., Clay Mills, la. 
McGowan, Thos. . Independence, la. 
Manning. A. L. , Dunlap, la. 
Manley, R. L. 

Nelson, W. A.. Hazelton, la. 
Olnistead. H.. Independence, la. 
Pottei'. .las. W., Fayette, la. 
Ralston. Nelson, Canton. S. 1). 
Small. H. J. F., Chicago, 111. 
Schneider. J.. Rosevvell, S. I). 
Terrill, R. W., Manchester. la. 
Widger. Joshua. INIanche.ster. la. 
Wandall. A.. Volga City. la. 



COMPANY G. 



L. D. Townsley. River I^'orest. 

Cook County. 111. 
J. E. Simpson. Norfolk. Neb. 
A. E. Anderson, Decorah, la. 
Anderson. Pet(T. 
Anderson, E. 
Clarlc, J. M. 

Coon. C. A., Sabinal, Tex. 
Christopherson. C. Hartland. Minn. 
Dunn. Van R., Nebraska. 
Fuller, A. S.. Maryville. Mo. 
Groves. A. H.. Decorah. la. 
Gilbertson, O.. Gilchrist, Minn. 
Hall. Giles. 

Ilouge, G. A., Albert Lea, Minn. 
Hanson, Hans. Lake Park. Minn. 
Hanson. Halver. Sheldon. S. I). 
Johnson. Nels O., Duluth. Minn. 
Kirkland. G. W., Freeport, la. 
Kittleson. G. 
Larson, Peter. 
Manson, J. 

Montgomery, Wm. V. 
Madinn. D. L. 

McCabe. C. Sherburne. Minn. 
Nass, G. H.. Washington Prairie. la. 
Oleson. O. 

Oleson, A. H.. Egge, S. D. 
Palmer, R., Nebraska. 
Raucha, Fred., Skidmore. Mo. 
Ryerson, F., Ashby, Minn. 
Smith. I. K., Baraboo, Wis. 
Simmons, R., Lake Park. Minn. 
Steen, Jolin, Wahoo, Neb. 
Steen, Henry, Lyons, Neb. 
Simmons. John. Flandreau. S. D. 



.1. O. .lohnson. Hesper. la. 

R. Hard. 

(}. W. Sharp, Fargo, N. 1). 

J. H. Womeldorf, Neligh, Neb. 

Anderson. A., Albert Lea, Minn. 

Ballard, Strawder. 

Crane, John. 

Crowell, J. M. 

Davis. N. J., Berrian Springs. Mich. 

Engberston, E.. vVastad. Mitiii. 

Fladniark. S. M M. 

Green, L. D. 

Gulbranson, A.. Rothsay, Minn. 

Hon.son, Klaus. 

Hanson, Ole. 

Harris, F. W. 

Hand. Andrew J. 

Johnson, H. E.. Evansville, Minn. 

Kittleson, C. B. . Norway Lake. Minn. 

Larson, John, Lacqui Parle. .VI inn. 

Low, Lewis L. 

McCloud. S. 

Meyer, C. Highland, 111. 

Meader, M. E., Hesper, la. 

Moe, Peter, Springfield. .Minn. 

Nelson, Swen. 

Oleson, E. 

Pierce. Fletcher. 

Raucha, Ed. 

Rocksvold, O. P., Thoton, la. 

Skinner, F., Forest City, S. D. 

Simmison, Nels. 

Severson, Nels. 

Stalim, Lars L., 208 P.lufF St., 

Sioux City. la 
Slattery, Thomas. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



m 



i'inke, J. 

Thompson, A. K. 
Taylor, VV. H. H. 
Wright. C. F. 
Wheeler, Horace. .Vlg'ona. 
Wait, \V., Ida. MO. 
West. S.. Red Cloud. Neb. 



la. 



Thompson, T., Lincoln Center, Kan. 
Tobiason, Andrew, Windom, Minn. 
Thoryson. Andrew. Crastad. Minn. 
W. L. Winsor. Clintc)n, Mo. 
Mrs. .Fennie I3urdick Sturdevant, 

Spring Valley, Minn. 
Young. Anna S. . Nashua. la. 



COMPANY H. 



Atkinson. W. L. C. , Omaha, Neb. 
Hrowii, Tom, Jewel City, Kan. 
Benedict, John W., Lexington. Neb 
Clark. B. A., Colesburg. la. 
Co.K, W. n., Alta, la. 
Duncan. N. E., Custom House, 

Kansas Citv. Mo 
Fishel, S. C, Iowa Fall, la. 
Fishel, S. K., Ft. McGinnis, Mont. 
Franks, Joseph, Lamont, la. 
Gosting, Alfred G., Strawberry Pt., la. 
Hamblin, R. E., Findley, la. 
Jackson, S. M., Lincoln, Neb. 
King, Wilson, Emerick, Neb 
Light, Robt., Tilden. Neb. 
Light, Joseph A.. Norfolk, Neb. 
Mason, John S., Worthington, la. 
McConnell, Alex. S., Hopkinton, la. 
Nauman, Geo. , North Platte, Net). 
Royse, VVm., Atlantic, la. ■ 
Struthers, Craig, Neb. 
Shorter, James, Shell Rock, la. 
Sloan, S. B. , Greeley, la. 
A'an Anda. John N.. Freemont, Neb. 
Wisegarber, Wm.. Walnut Hill, 111. 



Briggs, II. S., Marcus, la. 
Benedict, R. W., Hlackhawk, S. D. 
Currie, John G., Butte City, Mont. 
Crist, John W., Central City. S. D. 
Croosby, J. M , Yankton, S. I). 
Evans, Jo.seph, Tipton, Mo. 
Evans, James, Dubuque, la. 
Fishel, Robert W., Greeley, la. 
Flenniken, J. B , Battle Creek. Neb. 
Grimes, R. M. , Kearney, Neb. 
Henry, Philip, Greeley, la. 
•lones, David, Taconie, la. 
Kuhnes, J. C, Manning, la. 
Knee, Samuel G., Colesburg, la. 
Lang.slou, Aaron 1, transferred from 
Co. D, 27th la. to Co. D, 12th la. 
Moreland, C. D. W., Earlville, la. 
McCune, W. H.,'Ruthven, la. 
Playter, H. J.. 1921 6th St. N. W.. 

Washington, D. C. 
Smith, Thomas, Turkey River, la. 
Shorter. Wm'., Shell Rock, la. 
Trumble, James, Manchester, la. 
Winch, Edward, Arena, Wis. 
Ward, John W., Burlington", la. 



COMPANY I. 



Austin, N. E., Andrew, la. 
Allen, Eugene, Cedar Rapids, la. 
Austin, Marion, Staplehurt, Neb. 
lirintner. Wm., Brayton, la. 
P.rown, J., unknown. 
Butters, John F , Sioux City, la. 
Buchanan, James, Tama, la. 
Belknap, Albert, Freemont, Neb. 
Behnke, Frank. Guttenberg, la. 
Clark, Frank. Humboldt, la. 
Campbell. E B. Armstrong, la. 
Campbell. Tho.s., Humboldt county. 

Unique, la. 
Cobb, Edgar C;. Keokuk, la. 
Cobb, Wm. A.,' Walla Walla, Wash. 
Cotes, J. W., Talcott, S. D. 
Davenport, A. J., Superior, Neb. 
Dupray, Wm. H., 2630 Adel St. 

Sioux City, la. 
Devine, John J., room 31, 

152i N. High St., Columbus. O. 
Eddie, Thomas C . Pueblo, Colo. 



McKinley, James, Maquoketa, la. 
McCarron, W. F., Athens, Tenn. 
McCallum, D. D., Sibley, la. 
McDermont, Mike, Epworth. la. 
Nagle, M. D., Dubuque, la. 
Nims, Weed, Maquoketa, la. 
O'Niel, Andrew, not known. 
Palmer, A. L , Seattle, Wash. 
Paup. David, Sac City, la. 
Paup, Seth, not known. 
Perkins. H. J., Seattle, Wash. 
Poesch, Lorenso, Postville, la. 
Ray, John S.. Naponee, Neb. 
Reardon, John, not known. 
Rollf, Marion. Maquoketa, la. 
Swank. John M., Muscatine, la. 
Sumbardo, C. L., St. Paul, Minn. 
Starbuck, Wm. Oldham, S. D. 
Smith, Henry, Maquoketa, la. 
Schmidt, John, Lincoln, Neb. 
Thompson, Jas. L., Franklin. Neb. 
Teskey, George, Ellwood. la. 



FIFTH REUNION OF THE 



Eaton. T., MjKiuokota, la. 
Fiy, Will., Scraiitoti, la. 
Goodciiow, M. B., Ord. Nob. 
Ilattield. Aug., Mutiii)aii 2."{r) Com., 

Jersey City, N. J. 
Harding. Jaraes P.. lialdwin. la. 
Hendricks, Wni., VVintorset, la. 
.Jenkins, Alonzo. not known. 
Jolinson, Hans, not known. 
Knodt, Clias.. Postville, la. 
Kennedy, S. L . Cedar Rapids. la. 
Holder, Wni., Dubnciue, la. 
Kerns. Peter, Retihens, Kan. 
Lewis, Lewis, Holmes City. Minn. 
Lewis, Peter. Lund. Wis. 



\'an Hook, Samuel, (Hospital for 

Insane) Independence, la. 
V'an Duzee, E. .\I. (Maj.), 

St. Paul, Minn. 
Wells. Clias. A.. Sabula. la. 
Wilson, T. .1., Ma(iuoketa. la. 
Wilson. .J. F.. Fulton, la. 
VVolcott. Alden E., Lynxville. Wis. 
Williams, S., Atlantic, la. 
Williams, Sidney, Colfax, 111. 
Weaviness, Mike, not known. 
Vslev, (xeorge, Clinton, la. 
Zediker. Jas. p\(Capt.).324 N. 34th St.. 
Lincoln. Nel). 



COMPANY K. 



Brooks, Jolin. 

Brown, J. J.. Ploomington, Neb. 

Billings, Abram, Luzern, N. Y. 

Barden. Henrv A. 

Beckner. .1. M.. Charles Citv. la. 

Bugbey, S. M., 1012 otli St. N., 

Minneapolis, Minn. 
Church, P., Arborville, Neb. 
Deutsher, Albert, Nat. Home, O. 
Freeman, Richard, Spencer, (). 
Gilchrist. J. N., Durham, la. 
Keith, W. B.. Precept. Neb. 
Merriam. H. C. Nugent. la. 
Mathis, W. R., Omaha. Neb. 
Morgan, J. B., Davenport, la. 
Mosher, Ah'in. 

McConnell, Alex. S., Hopkinton, la. 
Robinson. Alonzo. Albion. Neb. 
Willard. Porter IT., Hopkinton. la. 



Blood, George W. 

Billings, Chas. D., liloomingtf)n. Neb. 
Blanchard. Thos., Le Mar, Kan. 
«^aldwin, Newton, Ada, Kan 
Blanchard, Ira. D., Crookston, Mitui. 
Davis, W. N.. Des Moines, la. 
Dolley, Godfrey, Hopkinton, la.i 
Ellison, W. H.. St. Kdwards, Neb. 
Fuller, O. T., Webster Grove, Mo. 
Horn, Samuel, Colesburg, la. 
Kemj), Wni., Kirwin. Kan. 
Merriam, C. E.. Hopkinton, la. 
Mathis, E. R., Omaha. Neb. 
Morehouse. P. J., Mason ville. la. 
Morgan. Wm. B., Bloomington, Neb. 
Mickey. Isaac, Waukon, la. 
Webb, Laurence, Cedar Rapids, la. 
Waldroff, Henry, La Porte City, la. 
Young. A. S.. Nashua, la. 



SIXTH REUNION 



OF THE 



TWE L FTH IOWA 



VETERAN VOLUNTEER 



INFANTRY, 



HELD AT 



MANCHESTER. IOWA. 



NOVEMBER. 11TH. AND 12TH, 



1896. 






\ 



Gift 



aSJe'OS 



V 



REUNION 



OF TH E 



Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry 

NOVEMBER. IITH. AND laTH., 1896. 



The 12th Iowa Infantry, that gallant regiment of the famous 
"Hornet's Nest Brigade," held its sixth annual re-union at Manchester, 
Iowa, November 11th and 12th, 1896. The closeness of the times, ill- 
ness and distance, prevented many of the comrades from attending, 
but what was lacking in numbers was more than made up in enthus- 
iasm. The veterans began coming in on early morning trains of the 
11th, and the scene at the depot was a jovial one. The morning and 
afternoon sessions were held at the Universalist church and little was 
done beyond the exchange of reminiscences and a general "visit." 
The registration of members present and collection of money to de- 
fray the expense of the publication of the usual pamphlet were at- 
tended to in the afternoon, in the way of business. 

Letters of regret at their inability to be present were read from 
comrades who are scattered over the vast empire from the Missouri 
to the Pacific. They came all the way from Oregon, Washington, 
California and other states in the land of the setting sun, all expres- 
sing heartfelt wishes for the success of the reunion. 

The reports of the oflScers were read, showing the organization 
to be in a flourishing condition. 

Among the letters of regret was one from Comrade French, a 
resident of Colorado, who, in order to be present at a former reunion, 
traveled 150 miles on snow shoes and waded a river filled with floating 



SIXTH REUNION OF THE 



ice. This comrade was the regiment's chief musician, who, on innum- 
erable occasions when the boys were tried and weary from marching 
struck up on his fife "The Girl 1 Left Behind ?.Ce," or some other tune 
that recalled to the boys the loved ones at home and caused them to 
fill the magnolia-scented woods of the south with their loud hurrahs. 

There was one present who had n( ver missed a battle or a skir- 
mish — the man who carried the flag of the 12th in the battles in which 
it too": part — Henry J. Grannis, of Fandalia, Fayette county. The flag 
was displayed, draping the president's desk. It, too, was an old veter- 
an, and if it could speak it would say that no braver man than Gran- 
nis ever held his country flag. He had a most remarkable career. He 
carried the regimental flag all through the struggle, and through many 
of the bloodiest battles, and, strange to say, never received a scratch 
— the records in the war d<'iuirtment showing no similar record of a 
colors-sergeant. 

In the evening the court room was the scene of festivities. By 
eight o'clock the room was well filled with an interested audience, 
which was called to order by H. C. Curtis, of Le Mars. The old flag 
of the 12th was again draped in full view of the audience, and at one 
side of it was a large picture of the late Col. S. G. Knee, a lamented 
member of the regiment. The camp-fire exercises were opened by the 
singing of "Marching Through Georgia," led by Comrade Comstock, 
of Fayette, in which the audience Coined. Rev. R. D. Parsons of the 
M. E. church, gave the invocation, and was followed by Ralph Dun- 
ham, fifteen years old, son of Comrade Abner Dunham, who delivered 
a patriotic and cordial address of welcome. He paid a glowing tribute 
to the old 12th, and closed amid hearty applause. 

The response by Comrade H. C. Curtis was well received, and re- 
called the trorblesome days of 61-65. Mr. Curtis spoke of the sacrifice 
made by the veterans of the war, and remembered enthusiastically in 
his address the boy soldier, Wm. McKinley. The appreciation of the 
members of the regiment, he said, for the courtesies shown them 
while in Manchester, was deep and sincere. 

The audience sang "When .Johnny Comes Marching Home," led 
by Mr. Comstock. Gen. .1. H. Stibbs, of Chicago, stirred the risibilities 
of the listeners in the delivery of a comic sketch, "The Man Who Car- 
ried the Gun." He was obliged to give another^"Me and Jim," and 
would not be let off until he had recited a clever sketch by James 
Whitcomb Riley. General Stibbs has the charm of naturalness, and 
was heard with great pleasure. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



At this point, Comrade Dunham spoke feelingly of the absence 
from the reunion of the late Col. Knee and Comrade Nagle of Dubu* 
que read a poetic tribute to the memory of the dead veteran. 



In Memoriam Col. S. G. Knee. 

Comrade, soldier, sleep in peace. 

Sleep the sleep that knows no waking; 
A nobler soul ne'er lound lelease 

From earthly pangs, from earthly aching. 
Sleep, hero, sleep, in hunoi^'s grave. 
Beneath the flag you fought to save — 
Yes, fought with heart so true, so brave. 

Nor would I call thee back again 

To this cold earth of pleasures fleeting; 

For thou art where the heavenly strain 
Is mellowed with the heavenly greeting. 

Thy duty it was nobly done. 

In honor's way thy life was run — 

Thou hast the crown of laurel won. 

Thy comrades brave will mourn for thee, 
Though soon with thee they'll all be sleeping: 

Soon they'll sail the shoreless sea, 
Leaving kindred spirits weeping. 

In the bivouac of the dead. 

With thee, they'll find a soldier's bed, 

Where each will rest his weary head. 

Friend of our young manhood's days. 

Thou are only gone before us; 
No more we see life's morning rays, 

But length'ning shadows creeping o'er us. 
Rest where the brave and gallant rest. 
With Freedom's sod above thy breast — 
Thy heart was true; it stood the test. 

— M. D. NAGLE. 



SIXTH REUNION OF THE 



"Yes, We Will Gather at the Hiver" was then sung, led by Com- 
rade Comstock, and there were many in the audience who wiped 
away a tear. Mr. Frank Knee, ilie colonel's son, who was present, 
was then introduced and received with applause. 

Major D. W. Reed, of Evuuston, 111, was then called on to 
give a sketch of the work of the Shiloh National Park Commission, 
of which he is secretary, and to tell of the appearance of the battle 
ground at the present day. He saia the bill providing for a National 
Park at Shiloh originated with a 12th Iowa boy, the gallant Col. D. B. 
Henderson, to whose efforts the success of the Commission is in main 
attributable. The Park will embrace ;J,0U(» a'^res, the idea being to 
restore the field to its condition in the time of war. Major Reed 
said that the roads have been but slightly changed, but that a thick 
growth of jack-oaks had grown over much of the field, the removal of 
which occasions much labor. The National Cemetery at Shiloh contains 
the graves of 4,000 Union soldiers, two-thirds of whom are unknown. 
Twenty-two bodies from the ranks of the 12th are there buried, only 
five of whom are known. His remarks were extremely interesting 
and at their conclusion he answered several questions from thotsc 
present. A request was made that Gen. Stibbs give a sketch of the 
journey of the 12th from Annapolis to St. Lo'iis, upon return from 
prison, which he did in a graphic manner. It was found that there 
were fourteen members of the regiment present who were among the 
three hundred who took the trip. 

"The Battle Cry of Freedom" was the next song, after which Mrs. 
R. B. Raines of Independence, a niece of H. C. Curtis of Company C, 
gave two very interesting recitations, being heartily applauded. Com- 
rade Dunham called on Judge E. P. Seeds of Manchester for a few 
remarks which were given in the spea'er's ever welcome, patriotic and 
eloquent style. Judge J. N. Weaver of Sioux City, a member of Com- 
pany D, followed the Judge in a few timely words, after which Com- 
rade Comstock gave in brief the history of the flag of the 12th Iowa. 
Gen. Stibbs enlivened affairs with a few well told camp-fire stories. 
After a song, adjournment was made for the evening. 

Another meeting of the reunion was held on the morning of the 
12th in the Universalist Church. The following officers were elected 
for the ensuing year: President, Abner Dunham; vice president, H. J. 
Grannis, Fayette; secretary, H. C. Curtis, Le Mars; treasurer. Major 
D. W. Reed, Evanston, Illinois; executive committee, G. E. Comstock, 
John Steen, C. E. Merriam. LeMars was settled upon as the place 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY 



for the next regular reunion, in the year 1900. In two years from 
this fall the 12th will meet at Pittsburg Landing on the battlefield ol 
Shiloh. Below we give the names of the members of the regiment, 
together with those of their wives or daughters in attendance upon 
the reunion in Manchester. 



Company A. 
N\ . W. Moore, Manchester. 

Company B. 
John D. Cole and wife, Lansing. 

Company C. 

r. Hazlett, Allison. 

N. H. Spears, Westgate. 

D. W. Reed, Evanston, 111. 

.7. W. Ballinger, Lacy. 

R. Z. Latimer and wife, Fayette. 

"r>. R. Ketchum, Hawkeye. 

H. C. Curtis, Le Mars. 

W. A. Kerr, Barron, Wisconsin. 

0. E. Comstock, Fayette. 

H. J. Grannis and daughter, Ran- 

dalia. 
.Tames Stewart, Anamosa. 
Geo. L. Durno and daughter, 

Springville. 

Company D. 

T. J. Lewis, Cedar Rapids. 

Fdwin A. Buttolph, Cedar Rapids 

Dennis Conley, Davenport. 

S. R. Burch, Washington, D. C. 

.T. H. Stibbs, Chicago, 111. 

H. C. Morehead, Cedar Rapids. 

John Rowen and wife, Vinton. 



L. M. Ayers, Cedar Rapids. 
J. N. Weaver, Sioux City. 
W. W. Whiteneck, Waterloo, 

Company E. 

B. E. Eberhart, Marshalltuwu. 
J. S. Margratz, Hitesville. 
David Craighton, Geneva. 
S.-lvester Cook, Newcastle, Neb. 
A. B. Perry, Fayette. 

Company F. 

H. M. Preston, Ft. Dodge. 
Tlios. VV. Nelson, Hazletou. 
H. VV. Mackey, Fayette. 
Joshua Widger, Manchester. 
Abner Dunham, Manchester. 
R. W. Tirrill, Manchester. 
J. J. Eaton, Edgewood. 
Wm. Schneider, Ft. Madison. 
G. W. Wooldridge, Edgewood. 
J. W. Potter. Edgewood. 

Company G. 

J. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Neb. 

John Steen, Wahoo, Neb. 

M. E. Meader and wife, Hesper. 

Company H. 

Jas. A. Light, Norfolk, Neb. 
H. J. Playter, Washington, D. C. 



8 



SIXTH REUNION OF THE 



A. T. Garner, Farley. 
R. W. Fishel, Greeley. 
G. H. Morisey, Manchester, 
J. Shorter, Shell Rock. 



W. D. Nagle, Dubuque. 

Wm. Keohler, Dubuque. 

M. B. Goodnow, Ovel, Nebraska. 

Henry Smith, Maquoketa. 



Company I. 



Company K. 



"Wm. H. Dupray, Sioux City. 
S. L. Kennedy, Cedar Rapids. 
E. C. Cobb. Keokuk. 



N. H. Baldwin, Ada, Kansas. 
C. E. Merriam, Hopkinton. 



Seventh Reunion 



OF THE 



TWELFTH !OwA 



Veteran Volunteer 



I N F AN T R Y. 



HELD AT 



DUBUQUE, IOWA 



JUNE 4TH. AND 5TH. 



1901 



^^!<V'^ 



\ 



«v 



em 

:'5Je'0S i 



REUNION 



OF THE 



Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry. 



JUNE 4TH. AND 5TH. 1901. 



The veterans of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry met for their Seventh 
reunion at Peterson's Hall, Dubuque Iowa, June 16, 1901, with a much 
larger attendance than was expected. The meeting was called to or- 
der by President Abner Dunham of Manchester, who stated why the 
reunion had not been held before, his explanation meeting with the 
hearty approval of those present. G. E. Comstock, the. secretary, was 
at his desk and the meeting got down to business in short order. 

The veterans present with wives and other female relatives, regis- 
tered as follows: 



Company A. 

Thomas H. Wilson, Robertson. 
C. E. Coombs, Hanover, 111. 
G. H. Cobb, and Lient. C. M. Run- 
Tele, Eldora. 
Mrs. C. E. Coombs. 

Company B. 

George Ibach, Preston, Minn. 
W. P. Winter, Bancroft, Iowa. 



R. Wampler, Waukon. 

D. F. Goodykoontz, Boone. 

John M. Dowling and Hugh Mc- 

Cabe, Waukon. 
Aslack I^arson, Preston, Minn. 
Frank Klees, Rossville. 
C. E. Roe, Waterloo. 
Adam Decker, Lansing. 
Mrs. R. Wampler. Miss Winter. 



SEVENTH REUNION OF THE 



Company C. 

Maj. D. W. Reed, Evanston, 111. 

Mrs. D. W. Reed, Evanston, 111. 
Hart Spears. Westgate, Iowa. 

S. C. Becli, Waverly. 

Mrs. S. C. Beck, Waverly. 

Lieut. H. J. Grannis, color bearer 

Randalia, Iowa. 
G. Hazlet, Allison. 
Lawrence Lott, Soldiers' Home, 

Marshalltown. 
R. Z. Latimer and G. E. Comstock 

Fayette. 
G. P. Latimer, Westgate. 
James Carmachiel, Volga. 
Emery Clark, Woodbine. 
W. A. Lyons, Marshalltown. 
E. C. Tatro, Castalia. 
Sim Gifford, Waucoma. 

Company D. 

Capt. E. B. Soper, Emmetsburg. 

William Baumgardnei , Scranton. 

Adjutant S. R. Burch, Washing- 
ton, D. C. 

W. W. Whitenack, Waterloo. 

Mrs. W. W. Whitenack, 
Waterloo. 

Lieut. Homer C. Morehead ana 
Ed A. Buttolph, Cedar Rapids. 

John N. Weaver, Sioux City. 

John W. Rowan, Vinton. 

Dennis C. Quigley, Mallard. 

Gen. J. Stibbs, Peoria. 

Josiah Scott, Shellhurg. 

Company E. 

J. S. Margretz, Kesley. 
J. W. Rich, Iowa City. 
D. Craighton, Lonera. 



C. V. Surfus, Bristow. 
R. L. Bird, Hampton. 
T. M. Earley, Dumont. 
Joe Franks, Lamont. 
David Schrack, Oelwein. 

Company F. 

R. W. Tirrell, Manchester. 

G. W. Woolbridge, J. J. Easton, 
Edgewood. 

Lieut. Abner Dunham, Manches- 
ter. 

W. A. Nelson, Tom C. Nelson, 
Hazelton. 

Mrs. R. W. Tirrell, Mrs. Thomas 
Elder. 

Mother Otis, Nurse. 

George Kent, Oelwein. 

W. H. Mac ey, assigned from 
27th Iowa. 

Jno. Litscher, Dubuque. 

Company G. 

O. P. Rockswold, Thoten, Iowa. 

W. Kirkland, Freeport. 

G. H. Hess, Washington Prairie, 
Iowa. 

M. E. Mender, Hesper. 

Mrs. M. E. Meader. 

* 

Company H. 

Capt. Bob Fishel, Manchester. 
S. B. Sloan, Greeley. 
H. S. Briggs, Marcus. 
Tom Smith, Cassville, Wis. 
S. C. Fishel, Iowa Falls. 
A. T. Gainer, Farley. 
James Evans, Dubuque. 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. INFANTRY. 



William Cox, Alta. J. C. Buchanan, S. L. Konnedy, 

Mrs. Robert Fishel, Mrs. S. B. Cedar Rapids. 

Sloan, Mrs. S. C. Fishel. M. D. Nagle, William Koehler. 

P. Hannah, Bellevue. Dubuque. 

George Teskey, Elwood. 
Company I. Mrs. T. J. Wlison. 

J. T. Campbell, Unique. Company K. 

Henry Smith, Maquoketa. 

George Yeley, Clinton. P- J- Morehouse, Manchester. 

T. J. Wilson, Maquoketa. 'Isaac Mickey, Waukon. 

J. F. Butters, Sioux City. r-odfrey Dolley, Coggan. 

M. C. McDermott, Placid. "E- C. Merriam, Hopkinton 

Mrs. Kane delegate to the meeting of the W. R. C. and Miss Bauer 
were also present with the Twelfth Iowa ladies, as was also Clad 
Fishel of Iowa Falls. 

A committee on program was appointed, consisting of Major 
Reed, Capt. Soper and J. W. Rich, and they reported one for the af- 
ternoon and next morning. 

Major Reed, secretary of the Shiloh National Park Commission 
gave a very interesting description of the battlefield of Shiloh. He 
said the battle was the most sanguinary of any fought during the 
civil war. when the number of men engaged on both sides were taken 
into account. The total number was 101,000, the confederates having 
several thousand more than the union army. The Twelfth Iowa lost 
two officers and eighteen men lilled, which, with the wounded and 
missing ran the total loss up to 409. Eighty members of the regi- 
ment died in prison. Major Reed gave a very interesting account ot 
the work done by the National Commission on the battlefield He 
said that the original condition of the field had been preserved to 
such an extent that the Improvements that had been made had not 
interfered with the positions held by the several regiments, and 
that there were twenty-five miles of good gravel roads — better roads 
than those of Gettysburg. Mayor Reed's remarks were of a historica. 
character and were highly enjoyed by the veterans, who frequently 
applauded. 

Captain Soper, Chairman of the Iowa Shiloh Commis-^ion, spoke 
with reference to the regimental and state monuments which are to 



SEVENTH REUNION OF THE 



be erected saying that there were eleven of the former to be 
erected to mark the positions held by the regiments from Iowa. 
Each of rliese would cost $2,Uim), and the state monument $25,000 
The regimental monuments would be of uniform height and design. 
He exhibited drawings of both monuments. The state monument, 
which is to be 75 feet high, will be erected on the site of Gen. Wal- 
laces's headquarters, would be of Barry granite, and the regimental 
will be of the same material. The regimental will consist of four 
pieces, the whole weighing between thirty and forty tons, and 
nine feet, eleven inches in height. On the front will be the following 
inscription: "Iowa — Twelfth Regiment Infantry. First Brigade, 
Second Division." On the rear will be a large bronze tablet giving the 
names of those killed and who died of wonnds received at Shiloh 
and those missing and never heard of. The monument will be in 
every way worthy of the Twelfth. 

Capt. Abner Dunham, who represented the Twelfth on the com 
mission of Iowa organizations that were at Vicksburg during the 
seige, gave a very interesting description of the work done by the 
commission. He spoke of I he present condition of the ground occu- 
pied by the Twelfth and other regiments. He said among other 
things that the Twelfth was not placed on the investment line. He 
said he had a hot time with Capt. Reed as to the position of the 
guns of the Second Iowa battery, which were in advance of the 
speaker's company but which Capt. Reed maintained were not. He 
tried to convince tl\e Captain but could not do so. Every member of 
the regiment knows Capt. Dunham is correct in the statement he 
made, and that, if the Twelfth was not on the line of investment, as 
much at it was possible to be, it was not at Vicksburg, at all. It 
was supporting the battery. With reference to the state monument, 
which v/ould be a splendid one, the speaker said he had the refusal 
of the site occupied by Grant's headquarters; or, if this was not satis- 
factory, the monument could be placed on a knoll near the headquar- 
ters. 

The veterans met again on the morning of the 5th and the loca- 
tion ox the Twelfth's Vicksburg monument was briefly discussed. 
Then a resolution was adopted, the substance of which was that Com- 
missioner Dunham exercise his judgment in having the monument lo- 
cated; in other words, the location selected by him will have the 
approval of the regiment. 

A number of letters from comrades unable to be present were 



TWELFTH IOWA V. V. I>TFANTRY. 



then read and oruered filed. 

Judge Weaver of Sioux City was called on and addressed the 
veterans briefly and aroused much enthusiasm. He was heartily 
applauded. 

Gen. J. H. Stibbs, the last colonel of the regiment and who was 
breveted for gallant service, recited two line poems, bearing on t^e 
war, and the applause was liberal. The general's heart is as young 
as it was in '61. 

Comrade Decker, with a little piece of birch bark, gave some 
selections and the sound could not be distinguished from that of a 
fife. He was roundly applauded. 

The fcllowing officers were elected: President, Abner Dunham, 
Manchester; secretary, G. E. Comstock, Fayette; treasurer, D. W. 
Reed, Evanston, 111. 

The place of holding the next reunion was left to the officers. 

It was decided to publish a pamphlet of the proceedings of the 
reunion and a roster of all or as many as can be correctly obtained 
of the regiment. Any member of the Twelfth knowing his address 
is not known to the secretary is requested to send same to that officer, 
G. E. Comstock, Fayette. 

In the afternoon the regiment, as a complete organization, witu 
four of its field officers present and every company represented, under 
its own flag, borne by its own gallant color-bearer, Grannis, and com- 
manded by its last colonel, General Stibbs, joined the parade of the 
Grand Army of the Department of Iowa and made, without doubt, its 
last march as a regiment. After the parade the regiment returned to 
the hall and said "Good-bye until we meet again." 







EIGHTH REUNION 

OF 








THE 






TT' "W ®) I^/ ^ TF" H I @ "W M 






VET. VOL. INFT. 






























DEDICATION 

OF 

LINCOLN MONUMENT 

AND 

HENDERSON STATUE 














AT 

JUNE 19 AND 20 
1905 

Reporter Publishing House, Faijette, Iowa. 





Eiffhin Reunion 



OF 



elfth iowa Vet, Vol. Infantry 



i Deaication 

i Lincoln Monument and 

I Col. Kenclerson Statue 



Clermont, June 19-20, 03. 



Reporter Publishing House, 
T'^iiiette, Iowa. 






lMx» lOL^A ( i^:. 



In the prf'parntion of this work r,,.,,- r- 

under cnsidcatlon the publi,,„in.. of a ^^X en. """* 

I>cdication of Lincoln ^fonument li„ ^ '""";'"" "' •'"■ l"weedii,»s c,r 
Iowa Vetcan Vo.nnee ,;':;?:"" ''T' """ ''"'"'"'" "' "' '^ 
various ...l„K-e..^.„dr„ro.,e^';:l,:1:^-';- 
ogies to otTer, or favors to -^^k- i L \, ^^' ^ ''^''^ "" ^P^'^" 

Iowa. daUKlue,- of CoM,«cle llait s„ ' '" , ""■"' '" '"'"^''"' 

re.iu,i«l ,|„. •■Cmnleisliin". -r.velfth low,- f '"V '"'"" "'"""■"Lv 
noyalF«,sl.' ^"""""""'' ■<<• admit 10 tlie^Kins's 

To tlie Fayette liand and Dnm, o..l■,^s f,.,- m • 
taMn. special ,.ai„,s ,o render so,., o, r ' '"■'"""' ■^<"-"^">'u«K.. 

»"■'- >"> "• "- |..-..,.e and I , r i^, f . ' i^ T' ? "'•' "'"■"''' 

'" ""■ ""'" .- Ti,„e,s l.u„Hsl,i„„ Co,„„,,„, s, , ,. , '"■ •'■" 

.^i-n- A. ,.-os,o,, Of ,„e Moya, >r,;„a, E ^ n.s V ' r."'""'"""- 
l"nl,e„seon,alfto„ee,„s. To Caot J F I ■" "•''""■ 

'■ "■•«"« >Hio,.-..;oMovva,,d*;,':,,^:.':r''V"'''^^'''"-"'''-'--' 

^" """-■• ■■■"Col. J, ,, „,„„.„.,„„ ,.,.,: „';;'.':.,;,;-; ,;;;;» ;•.' •" ->.>• .ve., 

•so hot it sinffcrl my hair. ^ ' """^"'^ '"''^'^ '^'C 

I kept right on -.sanin' u<,od", ".roino- sIo»- ... i . . • 
and here's yo.M- '-wood pii-- ,nd - .J • ''"^1 "keeping cool,- 

->^ -'... Awaitin. tl \Cl.e ^vlr^r'' ^■r'"^' =^ ^^^ 

^"-"•to -now ,ho .ssuran es o .; , , " '"f'^^''^^- ' '^'^ ''- 
'•'"!<•« -Ithe TwHft.: Iowa. "^ '-n>Ki,.,-a! io. f.,- ,n ,,..„- 

Vour Hinuhle Servant a„d ('.nunino. .f . ,.e -^Vh.,. T. •• 

' " '" n Hole Ifoii.^'/' 

<;. K. (OMs'roCK. Sc.-. 



Autfftor 
4 Ja '06 



Eiohlh Reunion, - Dedications. 



INVITATION. 

CkM-monI, lov.ii. April 1. Uto;!. 
C. 1']. C<)M>T()<!K. Sec'.v. of 12tli Iowa \'e1. ^'ol. liifl. Reunion Ass'ii. 

At a inoelinij of the Clermont Soldiers' Moiiiunent Association held 
Inst evening, the followin.s; resolutions were unanimously adopted: 

Rcsolved:--That the Secretary of the C. S. ]\f. Association be and 
is herel)y instructed to extend a very cordial invitation to the Twelfth 
Iowa Vet. Y(*l. Inf. Reunion .Vss'n. to hold their reunion here on June 
19th and 20Ui. Also 

Resolved: — That the Association liave charge of the dedicating of 
the llfiuieison Slatue. Also it was sui^^ested that you advise us what 
action you would l-e pleased to have us take in makin^f si!irai'>le prepara- 
tion for the d;jy and occasion. I^y ordei- of the 

Clermont Soldiers Monument Association, 
A. IT. Loom IS. Sec'y. 

THE CALL 

IIoa/d'!u;irier>; Twclfili Io\v;i X'cteran \'okuit:eei- Infantry Reunion Ass'n. 

layette, Iowa. May 1.). mv,. 
Dbak Comuadks: 

At a meet ing of your Execui ive Coinuiiltee, called by t!ie President, 
to take into consideration the po.ssibility of a reunion, it was decided to 
accept tlie proposition made to our association by tlie Clermont wSoidiers' 
Monumerit /vbsociation, of Clermont, Iowa, to hold our reunion at Cler- 
mont, .June 1!» and 20. l')0.'>. at the time of the dedicati(;n of the Lincoln 
uusnument and Col. 1>. H. Henderson statue. 

Ex-("J<.ver'i()r and .Mrs. Larrabee, and citizens, of Clermont, propose, 
and very much desire, to entertain, free of c.sst, ail of the 12th Iowa that 
may Ik- j)!eased to come and tl-ey are prei)ariny" to make it a ijrand success. 

Ex-(iovernor Larrabee has placed us under lasting- obliaations by 
conferring on our reuiment tlie distiny-uislied h-n^T of dedicat ing the 
Ilender.son statue. 

lion. J. i'. JioUiver has consented to deliver the adtU'css on tbat 
occasion. (See program herewith enclo.sed.) 

Once more, boys of the 12th. '-r'ally round the Hag" and make ilie 
best effort of youi- lives to be present, and I am sure you \\ ill fee! doubiy 
repaid. Respectfully, 

i't. K. Co.MsTocK. Sec'v. 



KKIinil UKIMON 

Dedication Program. 

Kill DA ^ . ji \ 1-; l;i. 
:: 11. 111. Assciulilr ill LiiK-dlii iiHMuiiiicni . 
Music l).v West Unitin coriu-i, l)aii(l. 

luvucation, Kev. M. S. Rice, pastor M. E. cliurcli. West Iiiioii. 
Sonj;, Clermont (Jk-e Club. 

rvcsentation (»l' Lincoln nionumonl l).v lT;in. Wni. L;in"il)or' Jr. 
Address by Miiyor .J. II. I'licrlr.in. 
2:;50 p. m. Asseniliie at Henderson stat uc. 
Unveiling statue by Miss li(>len Larral-ei". 

Presentation of statue to 12tb Iowa tordi'tlie:!! ion liy N'ieior Doiliver. 
Address by Ma,j. J). VV. Keed. 
Reading Miss K. A. Sorin's address on ijrrsenlal ion (it lla-- lo 

Co. C, 42 years a;;(). by Miss I'.eulah VVriohi. I. 1. f. 
Song, "yiagof Our LTnion" by Mrs. Professor Ciias. Neli', ('. 1. ['., 

witb eborus. 
:):(H> p. 111. Assemble at I'avilion. 
.\lusie by i''avr| tc cdrncl liaiid. 
Address. Col. i >. !'-. ! icndeison. 
\'oeal Musie. 

Address, Hon. .1. r. Doliiver. 
Music l)y r. I. I'. l).ind and (b'uin corps. 

Reunion Program. 

Sunset salute. Lowerin-^- tbe lla^- 

Music, FayPtte drum corps, 

7 p m. Asseml)le in i*avilion. 

Music l)y f. 1. r. band. 

Invocation.'!'. .1. IJassett, Tresident I'. I. t'. 

\'ocal music liy Mi.'-s Stella Speais of West (iate. 

Address of Welc(nne. A. TI. Loomis, of Clennoul . 

Response. Il(*n. i;. W. 'r(MTill of Mancbester. 

Music. 

Reading, -'Tbe Man"\Vilbout a Country. "" Miss llculali \VriL;b!, 

Department of Expression, U, I. I'. 
•Sbiloh, as seen today," P. R. W(*ods. 
Love feast — Opened by Col. .lack Stibiis. fol!o\vc(i by icn iMiiniic 

talks by comrades. 
Heading of letters from al'scni t-omra.dcs. 
12 p. m. Mi(biigbl l;il loo. 

sA IT i;i)A V. jiNi'; 20. 
Sunrise salute, six tt'clock reveille. 
S a. 111. Asseml)leal liendquarltM-s. 
Mart ial musii-. 

Address. Lieut. Aliner Imidiam. i'l-esidcnt . 
10 a. m. I'usiness meet iii};'. 
lt):.">0 a, m, Oil'ering of lesolulions, singing songs, lelling stoiies. 

visiting, love feast and good time b>r all. 
12 m. Adjourn. (b)odl)ye. 

C !■;<). E, Co>isn)CK. Sec. 



'rwi';i.i 'I'll KiWA .-, 

At Clermont. 

Jiitlie b=?:iiiliriil lilllo licviiol' (jlennon) . lovva. nestled (lu>vii iimoii^ 
the hills surrounding il, (disl inj'uishcci as the home of Ex-Gov. Larrabee) 
over six thousand people assembled, in reco.^nition of the Dedication, of 
Lincoln Monument, Co!. D. 13. Henderson Statue, and Reunion of tlie 
Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer Infantry. Darlc clouds, vvliich liovered 
overhead during the early morninj^, failed to keep the people of Fayette 
county from coming to these exercises. From early morning till noon 
farmers came to the ciiy, while the trains brought many others. The 
town was beautifully decora! ed with Hags and bunting while the pavillion, 
from which the addresses were made, was beautifully and artistically dec- 
orated. 'J'he citizens turned out en masse, there was agreat crowd i)resent. 

Tlie ^lonum.ent to Abraham Lincohi, the first unveiled, stands di- 
rectly opi-'osite tlxe Rock Island depot. It can. be plainly seen by all 
who pass through tlie town, as well as by the citizens of tlie place. 
A litl le park has l)een iitted up in military style, ornamented witli acan- 
non brouglu from the oki battlefields. The lieroic statue stands on a 
b-;ise and pedestal of granite. 

There are four tablets ropresentingscenesof the war of the rebellion. 
TvV;) of tliesa are of general subjecis and two apply directly to Clermont. 
One represents the surrender, Grant and Lee seated at a table with 
noted generals of both sides standing back of them. It is a striking 
group. The other general group represents an action in .Mobile bay. It 
represents Farragut in the rigging and Lieutenant Dewey, n(»w the ad- 
miral, in command of a gun squad. 

The two iiome subjects are quite as striking as the ol hers. One rep- 
resents Thomas HendorKon. of (Jo. C, brother of Col. Henderson, leaving 
home to go to war. Tlie other is a large group representing Captain War- 
ner, of Clermont, and his company, C of I2th, in battle; Dr. Lewis, also 
of Clermont, caring for the v/ounded and Gen. Sherman on horseback, is 
seen in the background. 

All of the work is liighly lat ist ic ;u)d sulistanti;d. The statue is the 
cieation of (Jeo. E. Blsseil, of >'ew York. The Henderson statue is the 
work of Massy Illiind, a sculptor, who came to this country from Scot- 
land, before the world's fair and who has since made a prominent place 
for himself in the east. His work has been praised by the ablest art 
Clitics, 



Monument and Statue. 

After music by the band, prayer by Rev. M. S. Rice, (»r West Union, 
and more music by the local chorus, Ex-Governor Larrabee, in a few wel! 
chosen words, presented the monument to the people of Clermont and 
the public generally. The response was made by Mayor J. H. Sheehan. 
Music by the chorus closed the exercises here. 

The company immediately moved to the Henderson statue, the 
chorus furnishing the opening music, after which Miss Helen Larrabee, 
youngest daughter of the Ex-Governor, mi veiled the statue. 

.Mr. V. M. Dolliver, of Fort Dodge, on behalf of Governor Larrabee and 
his family, presented the statue of Colonel Henderson to the town of 
Clermont, after which the dedication ceremonies were given into the 
Hands of the Twelfth Iowa Regiment. 

Upon the statue was draped two flags, on either arm. On the right 
hung the flag of Company C, made by Miss E. A. Sorin (then precep- 
tress) and the young ladies of the Upper Iowa University and presented 
to Company C. It was carried by H. J. Grannis, our Regimental Color 
Bearer, and was, by him, the first union flag planted on the breast works 
of Ft. Donelson, where Lieut. D. R. Henderson fell, seriously wounded 
In the throat, while leading his men in this fierce charge. On the left 
hung that historic emblem, the flag of Company K. Surgeon Finley 
of our regiment, says: "I saw that flag go down three times in that 'pot 
metal hell' and as often come up again." (See history of Co. K flag in 
this book). 

It was in this fearful, hotly contested battle of Corinth, Miss., 
where Lieutenant D. B. Henderson again fell, this time loosing his left 
leg, and this \% why this flag hung on that same side with the crutch. 
Is it any wonder, that when we recall all this, after the lapse of over 
forty years and when we again meet as comrades, that the "tear will 
unbidden start"? The interest still continued when Major D. W. Reed, 
of Co. C, who had received a severe wound at Shlloh, which the flag on the 
right arm represented, and was also in the Corinth battle, under lead of 
the flag on the left, arose and made the following remarks: 



TWKfj-rri low A 7 

Maj. Reed's Address. 

(Jov. Larrabeo, I hive l)een r(V|iie.sIcd l)y my ctinrafles. Dt' the I2th 
Iowa, lu (lediviato your ^^(Miorous aiirl f^raoious ^ift aiKi in their behalf to 
attempt in feeble words to express the gratitude we feel toward you for 
thus placing in living bronze and enduring granite this splendid testi- 
monial to a superb Iowa soldier and that soldier an honored member of 
our regiment. 

As the veil fell away there was revealed three objects tliat at once 
attracted my attention and tilled me with emotions that are hard to 
cf)ntrol and impossible for me to describe in words. First, 1 beheld a per- 
fect representation of one who was my schor)lmate and classmate: our 
comrade and friend, and has, for over forty years, been the persf)nal friend, 
not only of tlie members of our regiment, but of every soldier who wore 
the blue; (»ne who has tilled to the utmost the highest ideal of what a 
scholar, soldier and statesman should be and has by personal merit risen 
to the second highest place in the nation and has tilled every statirm 
with honor to him.self and his constituents, without a stain upon his 
character. It was a happy thought of yours. Gov. Larrabee, to select this 
ideal soldier, this member of the 12th Iowa as a representative and place 
his statue on the monument that shall for all time adorn (his beautiful 
city, and then ask us to dedicate it. 

Next, 1 .see "Our Flag'' and the sight carries me back forty two years 
to the Upper Iowa University where, in the summer of 1861 the students 
organized a company for drill, calling themselves "University llecruits" 
imder a resolve that: "When our services arc needed, we will drop our 
books to fight our country's l)attles." At the head of that company stood 
two men who have been today signally honored: William W. Warner and 
David B. Henderson. After drill September 15, 1861, Captain Warner 
read the call of President Lincoln for 300,000 men, and suggested that in 
his opinion the time had come to put our resolution to the test. At a 
meeting in the Chapel that afternocm twenty three students signed en- 
listment papers and directed Captain Warner to offer tlieir services to 
the government for three years, or during the war. The ladies of the 
University, full of patriotic zeal and devotion to their country, fashioned 
witli their own hands, a beautiful tlag. cml)roidering c»n its folds the 
words "University }>ecniits" and gave it to the c(»mpaiiy with these 
patri(>tic words: 

"Take our tlag. Proudly, conlidently, we comiuil it to your keeping. 
We do not liid you guard it, we know il is .safe In your hands. As you 
have been proud to live under it, if death be yom lot, may you die under 
its folds, and mviy (iod iirolect and prosper you as you defend your colors." 

Upon rlie organization of tlie 12th Iowa regiment, the University 
recruits became Company C and "Our Flag" became the regimental col- 
ois. It received its first baptism of fire at Fort Donelson, where it was 
carried in t riumph over the works, but left a trail of wounded in its patti, 
among them Lieutenant Henderson and W. B. Warner, of Clermont. 
The bright folds of this tlag waved at Shiloh, over that stubborn line at 
the "Hornets' Xest," from early morning until night, inspiring its de- 
feriders with heroic courage tliat enabled them to resist tlie rejieated 
chargesoft heeneniy. Thf "Army of (he Tennessee" was saved butthose 



i:ii: ti'iii i;i:!M()N 

who ciip,li'ibuK-cl must lo prevent its defeat, s;icriiiceii tiioiiiselvf.s and 
were compelled to surrender' imd see their flag carried from tlie field, a 
trophy of war. That was indeed a dark day lor the 12th Iowa. Ofl-S') 
present for duty on the tleld, 479 were killed, wounded or missing. Only 
ten escaped tlie casualties of battle and they were engaged with tlie sur- 
geon in cUrinji" for the wounded. iUit the most to be regretted feature of 
that disaster was t!ie report, .sent out by newspaper correspondents, that 
tlie regiment was surrounded and captured in their tents in the morning. 
Tliere were few left to dispute the story and the report gained sueh 
credence, be f(n'e the prisoners returned, that many accepted the state- 
ment as true. The ladies of the T. 1. U. were among the 11 r.st to find 
the true history of the surrender and we hear tiiam in a .In.ne orntion, 
.saying: 

•' 11 iionor to those wlio fougiit and fell arouml the tlag at Shiloh. 
Nobly did they wrestle with the foe, but as the day w<ire away, kind 
heaven for one moment averted her face, the enemy rallied around the 
lessened members and our school mates were prisoners. Our flag vvas 
\vTested from the grasp of those who prized it dearer than life. We 
tender our sympatliy to tliose, wiio, enduring the fate of war, tarry be- 
neath a southern sky; and bid them remember that captivi^ y which comes 
with h(»nor is true liberty. It is true that the flag that waved us adieu 
from yonder hill is ours no longer, but the spirit whose utterance it was. 
is as free as the air of our [)r;iirie:i and we but wait the word to fling forth 
to the l)reeze again: 

'Tiio stars for Diir hp.riK^s, 
Tilt? St rij>'.'H IV.!' our foi^s.' " 

L'pon the return (»f the prisoners the fair hands thkt f.ishinn;:^! tlie 
tirst flag, made this beautiful flag, an exact duplicate of the lirsr, and 
presented it to the company. It isthe flag that was used as regi menial 
colors at Spanish Fort and has been present at every reunion of tlie regi- 
ment, still borne by the loyal, gallant hands of Henry J. Orannis, who 
carried our colors so bravely on every fuic of our.bartletlelds, 

Biit I see another flag, as it floats now from the arm of the statue, 
almost as iuspiring as tiie other, it is the flag of Cv). K, and was carried 
by the Union Brigade at Corinth. Around it the 12th Iowa rallied, and 
in that iierce melee lost, in killed and wounded, half the number engaged 
on the fleld. Tlu-ee color bearers in succession went down and tlie flag 
was, for a moment, in the hands of the enemy, but its defenders rallied, 
and in a hand to hand conflict rescued it and placed it in t!ie hands of 
Sergeant Cole of Co. B, who was. soon shot through t lie bofiy. but c-rawled 
to the rear, l)earing the flag with, him, stained, I'.s you sec, by his l;lood. 
The enemy was repulsed, but around that blo(>d sfainer! i'anncr lay !i:i!r 
our numl)er. among t hem !>ur own loved Hen.deison. 

If it was intended to arouse all our enthusiasm, to Li!l our iiraiis ioo 
full for words, no better devise could iiave been plaiused. Ihun todraie 
those flags around the statue of our loved comrade :ind then unveil tJiem 
before our eyes. 

In this year ISKK), our regiment li:is' ))e(M! higlily l';ivore<1. Tbest;}!!' 
of Iowa has erected atShiloh a !»eaui ii'ul luomnnent. wineb will I (Ml lo all 
future ages the story of its heroic struggles. And here at Clerumnt, th*- 
home of so many of its foriui/r members, has Ijcen erected this boaul iful 
statue to tell to coming general ions soinething ol t Ik^ lionoratile life and 



TWELFTH IOWA » 

service ol one of our comrades; that shall Inspire our children and chil- 
dren's children to acts of patriotism, and to the study of the history of 
the country, and of a regiment that took an active part and did gallant 
service for our country. 

And now my comrades, in the name of those of our number who 
shed their blood in defense of these colors; of those who died that our 
country might live, and of those living still pledged to equal sacrifice, if 
necessary, to lieep our flag afloat, we dedicate this statue as a memorial, 
that shall stimulate the people of Clermont, of all future generations, to 
emulate the example of our comrade in all his gallant service for his 
country. 

Comrades, join me, once more as of old, in three cheers for Gov. Larra- 
bee. . 



Following Major Reed's address. Miss Beulah Wright, of the Depart- 
ment of Oratorical expression of U. I. U., stepped forth in the beauty of 
young womanhood, with her soul filled full of patriotic fire, and in the 
most eft'ectual manner reproduced the flag presentation speech of Miss 
Sorrin, delivered to Co. C, September 15, 1861. 

At the close of Miss Wright's reading, Mrs. Chas. D. Neff touchingly 
rendered "The Flag of Our Union", all joining in the chorus, lead by 
G. E. Comstock of Fayette, who led the same song sung at the presenta- 
tion of the flag when the hoary heads now bowed with age were the brave 
andgallant boys whoenlisted in their country's cause from old Upper Iowa. 
Some of these boys came from far ofl" states, one, P. R. Ketchura, from 
Idaho. 

At a signal, the cannon brought by the boys from Fayette, to do 
honor on this occasion, boomed forth thirteen times, as a salute to the 
flag, Lincoln monument, and Henderson statue, thus closing the services 
at the Henderson statue. The sea of interested spectators moved to 
the pavilion, where tv/o very large tents, joined together as one, furnish- 
ing a seating capacity of some four thousand, was packed full. Senator 
IJolliver and Col. Henderson were orators of the day (See both address- 
es reproduced in this book. ) 

Among tiiose of note who were upon the platform, were Hon. and 
Mrs. Larrabee, Hon. and Mrs. Henderson, Senator Dolliver and wife, 
Hon. G. N. Hougen, of the fourth district, Col. John F. Merry of Du- 
buque, Hon. J. H. Sweeney, of O.sage, Col. Rood, of Mt. Vernon, Hon. S. B. 
Zeigler and wife, our beloved Col. J. H. Stibbs, Chicago, our venerated and 
much loved surgeons, Dr. C.C.Parker, first, Dr. W. H. Finley, first Ass't., 
Maj. D. W. Reed, Maj. Geo. II. Morrisy and wife, Hon. R. W. Terrill and 
wife, Lieut. Dunham and wife, Geo. E. Bissell ofNew York, sculptor of 
the Lincoln statue, and Mrs. Rebecca Otis, who served as nurse from '61 
to '65, being now in her 77th year. 

Col. Henderson arose, greeted by a tumult of applause and made 
remarks as roHows: 



10 KKJH'IMI l:l<:i MON 

Col. Henderson's Speech. 

Mr. President, c-omratles and friends: To rae lliis is a sacred day and 
a more than sacred occasion. 1 see before me men of the old Twelfl li 
Iowa. This is our reunion. I see before me the faces of several sur- 
vivors who were in old company C, assembled and enlisted in this county 
of Fayette, but the dear, bron/ed faces of the living' call up the equally 
dear faces of the dead. The events of life are our mile-stones, and he 
who has not such marks has not a life in which it is important to record 
its events. Clermont is one of my mile-stones; Fayette county is another 
dear old Henderson prairie; in this township, is another; the 12th lov/a 
and all of its men, is another. Standing here 1 rcall my third war 
meeting, held in this village in September, ISfil, to gather tigliting men 
for company C of the 12th. It was held in some hall in this town. It 
would take a poet to describe that night, the historian cannot do it Jus- 
tice. We enlisted that night twenty-three men for war, picked out of 
the simple farm homes of this vicinity. I can recall many of the faces, 
outside of company C, that were at that meeting. Every eye coniributed 
tears of patriots and friends. Whenever a man was enlisted cheers were 
given; the old tlag was carried around the room and each man as lie en- 
listed marched after it as the cheers of the people rent the air. I recall 
the face of Governor Larrabee. who tried to enlist at that and another 
time, but was denied that honor, because of a plij^sical defect in one eye. 
1 recall tlie dear faces of tlie honored parents of our beloved Captain 
Warner of company C and his sisters too were there, patriotic angels of 
tlie Ilepublic and our beloved hostess of this occasion. Mrs. G<)vern<-r 
Larrabee was there, leading in our glorious songs. Her father and mother. 
Captain and Mrs. Appieman were there, the first a hero of the seas; the 
second, and botli, early pioneers, laboring for the beneiit of our lielcis and 
the up-building of our great state. I can see Steadman & Stough the 
merchants: dear old .John Hosford was with us then, and is with us now, 
age not dimming the warmth of his noble heart and unvarying friendship 
for the soldier of the Ilepublic. We recall Ben Agard, afterwards a sol- 
dier and now in Heaven. We recall the bright-eyed Loomis, now the 
husband of Captain Warner's oldest sister, a man ever true to the high- 
est duties of life, and ji'ather Dibble was with us, and it seems to me that 
the citizens of this locality, far and near, were witli us, with one heart 
for all of us, and one voice for the songs and life of our country. 

One hundred and four men who wished to join company C went with 
us to Dubuque to muster, and after physical examination l>y tise surgeon, 
98 were found able and (lualitied for battle. After service in many 
battles; after volunteering for a scconfi term, and after tiie war was 
ended, .38 remained, wlio assembled at the Upper Iowa LTnlversity, th-o 
place of original enlistment. The young hero and patriot. Win. W. 
Warner was brought home in his cottin and sleeps now near where we are 
assembled. Myownbrolher Thomas was shot through the heart in the 
"Hornefs Nest" at Shiloh and sleeps today among the immortal dead by 
the noiseless waters of the Tennessee. Of all that we enlisted in Cler- 
mont, very few siu'vived, but it fills me with. joy to see so many of the 
survivors (»f the old Twelft ii Iowa here. Tliey iiave come "from near and 
from far" for tliismeel ing. mnlcinganol her li'i'eat inile-sione in oirr (ravels 



TWELFTH 1(»\VA 11 

through life. It is heail-wannitig to see so many of those dead heroes' 
children here; there are, however, but few survivors of that sacred band 
of old citizens, who clieerod the boys to war, to victory or death, at that 
little war meeting in 1861. 

To me, and to many of us here, everything has a sweet memory and 
is stamped with battle history. There stands the mill, owned at one 
time by "Jack Thomp.sun," and afterward and for a longtime, by our 
dear William Larrabee. The Turkey River running by, many of us have 
fished in, swimmed in, and it's ancient music is still in our hearts. There 
is no ravine around here that is not made sacred by the memory of dear 
homes, beloved homes, Irisli dances, American dances, Norwegian dances, 
spelling schools, singing schools, and above all debating schools. These 
surrounding woods contain memories and sacred stories which will ever 
be dear to most of those here now and on this very occasion, when Gov- 
ernor Larrabee is doing so much for this Fayette county and his friends. 
Let it not be forgotten for I believe that, in the people of Clermont, he 
ever has had and has now a generous, honest and enthusiastic constitu- 
ency. 

When we consider what has been done, and is being done in Clermont, 
you will agree that it is a great mile-post in the life of Governor Larra- 
bee, and his suri'oundiny friends. 

WHAT HAS HE DONK? 

My friends, it would be easier to answer the question: What has he 
failed to do'? Turn your eyes to yonder square, wliere we have this day 
dedicated, through his precious gift, that splendid bronze statue to Ab- 
raliarn Lincoln. It is, as it ought to be, heroic in size; his duplicate has 
not yet been produced in our country. He gave his life to liberty, and no 
Union army, regiment or company, failed to recognize him as a comrade. 
Wasliingtcni \vas the father but Lincoln was Ihe preserver of our country. 
Yonder statue is by one of America's greatest sculptors. What a per- 
petual lesson for our people? Orator, statesman, poet, lawyer, law maker, 
our chief executive, martyr! His life presents a field that will ever be 
rich to the historian, the artist and the patriot. Governor liarrabee, you 
have done much that is good, but I believe that presenting this statue, 
is one of your greatest acts. 

TWKLFTH IOWA rNFAXJltV. 

T must make a few observations, especialiy lo my old comrades and 
friends of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry. The history of your slate and 
country will show that no truer body of men entered the United States 
siMvice during the Civil War. Its liistory is a part of the bloody history 
from which was evolved the final and sacred establishment and preser- 
vation of our ilepulilic. On its great deeds I may not dwell, for history 
contains all that can be written of a regimeiit. I wish I coukl pen to-day 
the unwritten history of the old Twelfth lov.a: the early glowing heart 
of our patriotic boys wlien they left home to save their beloved land; 
liie agonies, the tortures of the battle field; the never-to-be-truly-told 
story of the h(jspital; the sufferings of that great body of our comrades, 
known under the names of fatlier, mother and friends: the unmarked 
graves, and, (»h, if I could tell it, and make the world know it. that 
peculiar shouc, almost a yell that followed the victorious struggle of our 
iiifn. I will not leave that story for tiie painter or the poet, to sculptor 



12 KUMi'JH Kia NION 

or historian; it is buried with our dead and still remembered and cher- 
ished by our living. It was a part of the grand old Army of the 
Tennessee, whose commanders were Grant, Sherman, McPherson, Logan 
and Howard, a part of an army that never lost a single battle during 
the great civil war, and whose survivors are assembled here. 

It would be cruel for me to name one of that regiment and at the 
same time omit a single name. I superintended the burial of thirteen 
dead comra des at Shiloh, and they are now in the National Cemetery 
there with a monument in the center of a half-circle, telling briefly who 
were buried there. It is sweet to see that the sister of dear, dead, Cap- 
tain Warner, the wife of Mr. Loomis, has made her home our home on 
this occasion, her table our table, but all of the rest of Captain Warner's 
family have passed beyond and are with our departed comrades now. 

You will pardon me if I refer to a letter written me, on the 21st of 
April, 1903, from 279 Henrietta Court, Passadena, California. It was 
written by a true member of company C, 1 must i)ut it so. H is from 
Miss E. A. Sorin. In closing she said: 

"One thing I forgot to say that I ?>it«st not forget. 

"I want you to bear my greeting of loving remembrance to company C. " 

Would you like to hear a word or two about that dear woman? She 
was Preceptress of the Upper Iowa ITniversity at the time of our first war 
meeting, and saw twenty-two of the old students enlist for the 12th. Our 
enlistment roll was short, we did not know just what was required for 
an enlistment roll. Here are the closing words: 

"We drop our books to light our country's battles." 

While some of the faculty were frightened at the injury to their 
school, this dear woman, one of the faculty, never flinched, hut her voice, 
her tears, and her prayers, went with us from lirst to last, and her love 
message I have just delivered. A Southerner born was she, but never 
for an instant was she other than faithful to the flag of her whole country. 

STATI^E OF D. IJ. IIKNDKUSON. 

Touching this bronze statue of mys 'If, I can, should, and will be brief. 
I am grateful to Governor Larrabee for permitting my old regiment to 
conduct the unvailing and the dedication of this statue of myself. It, is 
the product first, of Governor Larrabee's own brain and heart; the details 
of the work were all born of his brain. Personally, I feel a delicacy about 
the appearance of a crutch, but Governor Larrabee was the historian, and 
would have it there as a part of the monument. I am glad to note that 
my old comrades, with one voice, approved of this feature of the mf)nu- 
ment. Second, heroic in size, it is the product of one of America's 
great sculptors, Mr. J. Massey Rhind of New York, like myself, born in 
Scotland, and I know, like myself, ardently loving his adopted country 
and its irreat history. The statue tells its own story. But, (>h! how glad 
1 am to learn from your lips, my dear comrades and friends that, Gover- 
nor Larrabee and the artist h.ave faithfully told the story it is intended 
to represent. It stands in the street, where, wilh horses, cattle, blue- 
jeans and bai'e-feet, I have often gone while a l)oy, disi-harging the simple 
duties of a farmer's life. 

You who know me best, can measure the deptlis of my grat il tide, and 
mv inaViility to t<'ll you wtiat is in my heart to-day. 




WILLIAM LARRABEE. 



TWlOMTil IOWA I?, 

GOVKKNOR LARUABKE. 

I will be pardoned, I know, for saying a few words about Hon. Wil- 
liam Larrabee, my boyhood and lifelong friend, but whether you approve 
or not, 1 am going to say some things of this great man; something of 
his work; something of his life; something of his heart, and something of 
his great cliaracter. When I lirst knew this man, he was hardly more 
than a boy, leading the work on iiis brother-in-law's farm in Clayton 
ectunty, the farm of the Hon. E. H. Williams, whose noble wife still sur- 
vives him, and who in addition to service on the district bench, became a 
member of the Supreme Court of Iowa, and whose farm is still enjoyed by 
his widow and his children. It is just across the line from Fayette 
county, situated in Clayton county. Many a time in j-outh I have 
bound grain by the side of William Larrabee, and I must admit that he 
could bind a bundle of grain about as quickly as any man I ever knew, 
and we had more than one test of our skill. Subsequently, he bought 
that mill down there in Clermont, and it was the boast of the farmers 
that they could send a load of wheat to Larrabee's mill by their younger 
children and know absolutely that they would get every cent they were 
entitled to, Without compensation this Connecticut yankee taught the 
lirst singing school on Henderson Prairie; the noble woman, his wife, and 
1 were among his first pupils. He was a constant attendant upon the 
Henderson Prairie debating school, meeting us at the old stone school 
house, and here he partly developed the wonderful mind that has .so en- 
riched his state. Thoroug-tily educated in Connecticut, this young yan- 
kee at once t(»ok a frc^nt rank, as a leader, thinker and worker in our 
community. None of his old neighbors fell in battle without his looking 
up and ascertaining the condition of the surviving members of the dead 
soldier's family. His heart was ever open, and his pur.se ever free to 
those who needed help. Pardon me, if I say that, on my return from 
war, minus a leg, he moved withr)ut telling me, to have me appointed 
Commi.ssioner for the Board of Enrollment for this district, and brought 
my commission to me while lying on my back after the amputation on 
my father's farm. With years of industry he has acquired a competency, 
but no man can truthfully say that there is a soiled dollar in his pocket. 
The accumulations of his able brain and untiring energy are as clean as 
his soul. His pen has contributed to the literary works of his time, not 
ilction, but the solid treatment of great questions. He was sixteen years 
in the State Senate of Iowa, the recogniz3d leader of that body; twice he 
was the honored Governor of Iowa, and left a record as such Governor, 
which the most njble and patriotic miy well follow as an example. From 
liis birth he was a tireless worker; integrity was stamped upon his soul; 
each member of his family is a credit to Governor and Mrs. Larrabee, for 
both have lived together, worked together and are thought of and loved 
as one. Let me brietly resam ;. He his ever been my friend, loved and 
was loved as a brother: singing teai-Zner, refusing compensation; a constant 
attendant of a vigorous debating society; a loyal friend of his Govern- 
ment and of its defendeis: a beautiful neighbor; a patron and promoter 
of art, and I should add, has now a splendid bronze statue of General 
Grant, which at prosejit stands at his old home in Clermont, the produc- 
tion of a great sjulptor, which will be duly erected here; an honest miller 
wise and tireless farmer, a broad-minded and successful law maker; a 
member of the State Hoird of Control, w'nere he mapped out the course 



14 EIGHTH K ELM ON 

his successors should pursue; an uncomproinising patriot; an advocate of 
a sound, stable, and generous currency; a great Governor of a great state, 
his influence has been felt in the state, in the Nation, and in his beauti- 
ful home. 

IN CONCLUSION. 

1 propose three cheers for Governor Larrabee, liis accomplished wife, 
and to all of the citizens of Clermont. (Three cheers and a tiger given 
with wild enthusiasm. ) And now, my friends, with gratitude to you who 
have come so far to spend this day with us, and with an affection which I 
hope will grow with life, I will bid each and all a kind good-bye. 

Col. D. B. Hicndkuson. 



Senator Dulliver's Address. 

Senator Dulliver. who delivered the principal address of the day, Wiis 
given an ovation when he arose to speak. His oration was an eloquent 
effort. Touching at length on the character and achievements of Col. 
Henderson his address made a marked impression. He said: 

Members of the 12th Iowa and Fellow Citizens:— The honor of taking 
part in the exercises of this day is one which I sincerely appreciate. I 
thank the veterans of the Twelfth Iowa for their invitation to speak a 
few words about their old comrade who.se statue Ihey have dedicated 
amid these scenes of his early manhood, among the neighbors and friends 
who have followed his career with affection and pride all the days of his 
life. 

The erection of these monuments, one to the great President, and the 
other to a typical volunteer soldier, is an act thoroughly characteristic of 
the honored citizen to whose public spirit the people of Iowa owe this 
generous contribution to the higher life of the commonwealth. It was 
not the privilege of Governor Larrabee to serve in the ranks of the army 
in the field, though he organized a company and tendered his own service. 
But from the outbreak of the rebellion to the surreaJn* at Appomattox, 
his patriotic heart was witli the enlisting regiments, encouraging them 
by words of cheer, caving for their families while they were away, and in 
after years proving by unnumbered acts of kindness his right to the place 
he has always held in the gratitude and good will of the surviving 
veterans. 

Few men in the liistory of our slate have served the people with sucli 
distinction in the various ottices wliicli he has occupied. He has shown 
the most complete devotion to public interests and has discharged liis 
duties with an eye single to the welfare of the co-nmunity. He 1ms not 
needed the pomp and ceremony of otticiul station: for his counsel and 
guidance in the management of all public business, have never been more 
acceptable or more valuable tlian since he has occu})ied the position and 
e.tercised the rights of a private citizen. 

In other times as interested travelers pause on their journey tlirough 
this beautiful va!l'\v to liK>k upon these impressive figures, commemorat- 



TWELl TH iOWA 15 

ing names famous in our annals as a people, they will not foi^et the unpre- 
tentious citizen, conspicuous for more than a generation in the affairs of 
the state, who has enriched the community with such an enduring legacy. 

Their erection has in it a signiticance somewhat deeper than at first 
appears. They are a witness or rather they preserve the testimony of one 
who has done his full part in the material development of the state, that 
the time has come for the people of Iowa to turn aside from the' pursuit 
of business, to consider the place in our scheme of popular education 
which belongs to the ornaments of grace and beauty. It foreshadows the 
approach of that public opinion which will attract into the homes of our 
people, and into all our public itLstituiions the influences of the finer arts, 
and at last make the state, already the abode of wealth and culture, a 
contributor in a still larger sense to the real assets of the world. 

It is a pleasuro to all of us that tiie sculptor whose genius created the 
statue of Lincoln which we have dedicated today, is present on the plat- 
form, and 1 take great pleasure in presenting Mr. Bissell, who has come 
all the way from his home in New York, to join in the exercises of the 
day. lie is not only a great artist but v/as a good soldier in the Union 
army. 

(Senator Dolliver at this point brought Mr. Bissel forward amid 
hearty enthusiasm in vvliich the whole audience shared.) 

Senator DoUiver continued: 

Now that, the thread of my discourse has been interrupted, I will say 
another thing. The author of the Henderson statue is not here, but 
there is one here who has had as m-.ich to do in shaping the character and 
moulding the career of Colonel Henderson as the artist had in giving form 
and stature to his image in bronze. I ask the TweifLh Iowa to salute 
Colonel Henderson's wife— Mie woman who has shared his honors, and 
helped to carry his burdens. 

(Senator DoUiver at this point escorted Mrs. Henderson to the front 
of the platform, the whole audience rising and following the members of 
the Old resjiment in three rousing cheers for her. The Senator then con- 
tinued his speech. ) 

Governor Larrabee has been peculiarly fortunate in choosing his 
heroes. It is a ditiicult rhing to pick out. especially from a list of men of 
our own time, appropriate subjects to be perpetuated in brijnzeor marble. 
It has been said lijat the sculptor's art is the most helpless of all the 
eiforts of The human ruind to express itself. Therefore the statue of a 
man seldom does more than to record the accepted estimate of his charac- 
ter and his achievements. It adds nothing to what he is and little to the 
reputation of what he has done. There is a sense in which a statue is a 
thing sacred and set apart .so that m.en and women looking upon it may 
be made better, wiser, stronger, by considering the manner of man he 
actually was. "Show me the man you honor;" said Thomas Carlyle, "I 
know by that sympti»rii better than any other what kind of a man you 
yourself are." This conclusion of the whole matter of statue making the 
blunt old Scotchman writes dov/n in the midst of his iierce philippic on 
the subject of a proposed siaiue to a successful r;iilro:id promoter of 1850. 
a now entirely fc^rgot ten mull i-!nillionaire by the name of Hudson, and 
incidentally against •'thai extraordinary population of brazen and other 
images" which at the time dominated the market places of towns and 
sitlicited worship irom the English people. 



ic liHiii'iii [;r:i \i<>x 

A statue of Lincoln, while it adds nothing to him. is in itself a 
worthy commentary upon the national character, for it brings us face t(» 
face with the grandest, simplest, purest life that was ever lived by a man 
among the children of men. It stands for an epoch in human affairs in 
which were blended all the heroisms, all the sublime aspirations, all the 
pathetic sacrifices which have made the national life worth living. Yet 
there is a meaning which takes even a stronger hold upon our hearts, in 
the other figure standing there on crutches and looking down upon us 
with the benignity of an old neighbor and an old friend. Abraham Lin- 
coln has already become one of the legends of our heroic age. All the 
rugged lines have been smoothed out of that care-worn face; while the 
man himself, who once sat upon store boxes and entertained villagers 
with curious narratives drawn from the homely experiences of his own 
life, or the quaint resources of his imagination, has been lifted up by Ihe 
common consent of mankind above all thrones and has taken his august 
rank in the midst of the ages. 

A statue of David B. Henderson brings back to us in a more intimate 
way the events of that period without taking us very far from home. It is 
fitting that this monument should stand here near the pioneer farm- 
house from whicli Colonel Henderson and his two brothers went out as 
soldiers of the republic, and that these ceremonies should be conductetl 
by those who remain of the regiment in which he served with susii gal- 
lantry and renown. Not very far from this spot is t he prairie ujxtn which 
his parents established their homestead in ISii). They had come from a 
foreign land, but from a country so like our own in its inheritance of free- 
dom that its scattered children have had little ditliculty in making them- 
selves at home everywhere in the United States. 

1 heard Colonel Henderson once in the midst of a gay social assembly 
at our capital, in answer to the quest i(m of a fashionable lady, relate the 
story of their long journey from Old Deer, Scotland, to America. He 
told of the injustice of the landlord's son who had come into the estate: 
of the anger of his old Scotch fat her, and of his resolution to take his little 
family, David being the youngest, and make his way to a new land to 
lind better opportunities for his children; a land where "a man is a man 
tov a that." He related also his visit to his old home a year or two ago, 
passing modestly over his audience with Kings and noblemen, to tell of 
his elfort to discover among those who were acquainted with his family 
in Scotland, some one who had known his motlier: and of rinding only 
(me who could tell him anything about lier, an aged woman who only re- 
membered that she was kind to the poor and was (tften seen going about 
carrying in a basket some delicacy for the sick. 

The way he told of the privations of his boyhood and the gentle tone 
with which ho spoke of his mother threw a true light upon his inner life, 
so that when he had finished, tears were in the eyes of the whole com- 
pany which listened to his simple manly words. 

1 have known Colonel Henderson now for more than a quarter of a 
century, and whether 1 think ot liim as a farmer's lad following the 
furrow on the prairie yonder, or lying lielpless ()n the luilileiieid at Cor- 
inth, or holding his own in the tumultuous encounters of the House of 
llepresentatives, or weilding the authority of the second olllce in the 
government of the United States, 1 confess that he has always seemed to 
me an admirable example of what is ))est and strongest in the life of the 



'I^WKiJTII IOWA 17 

Ai!!eri(.-;!ii i)c;)p!(\ 

In every aspect of liis careoi- lie lias been a representative of Iowa; 
tliough not born upon our soil, he came into contact witli it before he 
was ten years old. and until ne was twonty-ono kept close enough to it to 
j^et the physical, iniellectual and moral strength which comes up into a 
man out of plowed grctund through his bare feet. To a young man like 
Colonel Henderson the call of his country for soldiers to defend her in 
the time of need, came as a command to be obeyed at once; and so the 
awkward country boy just turned twenty-one years of age, finds himself 
a member of Company C of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry, and entered with 
you upon that eventful experience which has given to the survivors of 
the regiment a heritage of honor and glory for all time to come. 

He was with you in the camp of prepavatitin while you made ready 
for the war; he was with you through the long winter at St Louis when 
disease wasted your inimbers. before yet you had seen your enemy in the 
tield. He was with you at Cairo where you met for the first time your great 
commander, then holding a humble assignment in the national service; he 
was wilhyou at Donelson where you won everlasting honor by bloody work 
well done: he was with you on the historic Jield of Sliiloli where not even 
the bravery of the bravest could stand against the overwhelming disaster 
v.iiicii befell you: he was with the little remnant of the regiment at Cor- 
inth where he fell hi the lliick of the light under wounds which left him 
maimed and crippled and tilled much of his after life with misery and 
pain. He has been with you in the ble.ssed years of peace, and has enter- 
ed with a perfect sympathy into the joys and sorrows of your daily lives. 
He is with you today, and all others seem like intruders upon the rites of 
a i-eremony which belongs to you and to your comrades living and dead. 

Colonel Henderson received in an extraordinary measure the recogni- 
tion v.'hieh the Ameriean people have always been prompt to give to 
those wJH) liave served their country in war. When he retired from pub- 
lic life, he had enjoyed for an unusual period the distinction which be- 
longs 10 t!ie IL.'Use of Representatives, crowned at last by two unanimous 
elections to tlie oilice which more than ever embodies the influence and 
dignity of that great i;opular assembly. Rut no eminence of his career 
in civil life, can overshadov/ the service which he rendered when with 
willing lieart and eager enthusiasm he offered his name t<» the Twelfth 
l(;wa and with you have himself without reserve to the national defense. 

I'or over twenty years Col. Henders(in has been a notable flg'.ire in 
the arena of American pu.blic life. His record in the House of Represen- 
tatives was remarkable not only for its length, but almost from the be- 
ginning, for the unique personal leadersliip which was accorded him by 
his folleagues. 

It is a body which never fails to judge with infallible accuracy the 
qu;ililications of the men who aspire to direct the great affairs of legisla- 
tion. It is considerate of the weak, inexoraV)le in its dealings with the 
vain and presumptuous, proud of the valiant and successful, losing no 
time in according the full measure of appreciation to ability and strength. 
It is a fighting arena in whicli no intellectual gift is worth anything un- 
less it is kept always ready for the fray. It is a ff)rum of debate, of hand 
to hand comba!. always ready to listen to words spoken in se;ison, will- 
ing to i^ive iiow moll a Ciianci' and generous with its applause for tlu' 



18 KUJHTir REUNION 

humblest member who takes occasion by the hand. 

Into the midst of these restless and stormy activities Col. Henderson 
came in the Forty-eighth Con.jrress after a brief but brilliant career at 
the Iowa bar; and he had not been there very lony before the House had 
learned that he could be counted upon not only for wise counsel but in 
all the sudden emerjirencies of controversey and discussion. His oppcirtu- 
nity came early in the session of the Forty-ninth Congress. He had been 
active and earnest in securing the legislation vvhicli provided for tlie in- 
crease of the pensions of widows from $8.00 to $12.00. and when the gen- 
eral pension appropriation bill was under discussion, he ventured to make 
some comments upon the attitude of members from the South towards 
that legislation. Almost immediately, as so often happens, without 
warning, acrimonious debate sprang up which raged for several days, in- 
volving nearly all the important party leaders on both sides of the House. 
Everything, as usual, was discussed except the niatter under considera- 
tion, and while Colonel Henderson was supported adequately on his own 
side of the House, it is obvious from the Kecord that he had to bear the 
brunt of the battle himself. 7\11 the weapons of partisan warfare were 
directed against him; epithets and otTensive personalities tilled the cham- 
ber, through all of which Col. Henderson maintained a calm and cheerful 
temper. At length a gentleman from Georgia, Mr. Norwood, in a speech 
bristling with irritating satire and evil insinuations, sneered at his "ex- 
pansive patriotism," and with malice ill concealed, tried to make a jest 
of his foreign nativity. When the Georgian had tinished, so complete 
was his apparent victory that Mr. Allen, the quaint humorist froni Mis- 
sissippi, suggested "that business be suspended for a moment while tjie 
gentleman from Iowa receives the sympathy of his friends." 

It was an important hour for Col. Henderson. If he had tried lo 
answer wit with wit, ridicule with ridicule, he would have failed alto- 
gether. But >rr. Norwood's contemptuous allusions to the fatherland, 
to Ben Lomond and the thistle, made it appropriate for the Iowa orator 
to pass by in silence the words of levity and banter and to take his posi- 
tion upon higher ground where his antagonist was easily outclassed. 

Straight from the shoulder came Colonel Henderson's reply: "It is 
thrown in my teeth that I Urst drew breath in siglit of Ben Lomond. 
That is true, ]Mr. Chairman, but while it is true that I represent in my 
birth the land of the thistle, I want to teil tlie gentleman tliat -in-m 
lowland moor to highland })ass, treason never found birth in a Scottish 
heart. True it is that I was born in Scotland. True it is that a little 
child I came to America. Does it remain for a simple Scottish boy of 
twenty-one, not born under the folds of the beautiful flag of America, to 
teach patriotism to a gentleman who was born upon American sf)il'? 

Mr. Chairman, I recognize with pleasure the gentlemanly and manly 
charactar of some of my opponents in this debate. I take pleasure in 
recognizing in that way the gentleman from West Virginia (Mr. Wilson), 
and the cultivated and eloquent gentleman from Kentucky (Mr. Breckin- 
ridge), who spent four years of his life in the Co?ifederate service. That 
gentleman drew a picture, beautiful, toiu-hing and instructive, of three 
brothers, all nursed at the same breast, lighting on opposing fields, and 
yet no barrier between their hearts. 

I too, Mr. Ciinirman. will atteiii])! lo rhaw a "f:i;)iily iiictnre." if T 



TWELFTH IOWA 19 

may imvc the same permission. Tliree brothers of us met togetlier one 
night ill 18()1. under tlie old family roof, and agreed that in this great 
land of our adoption the hf)ur liad come for us to lay our lives at tlie feet 
of our common country. We slept none that niglit; all sat up. In the 
morning before parting, the old father (turning to Mr. Norwood) born in 
Scotland, too, took down the old family Bible (again turning to Mr. Nor- 
wood) brought from Scotland, and after reading it, knelt among his little 
group of Scottish-American children, prayed to the God of nations to 
guard us and make us brave for tiie right, llnished the prayer and said 
amen. 

The parting you yontlemcn have nothing to do witli: but those tliree 
brothers, 'all nursed at the same breast,' and 'with no barrier between 
their hearts,' went side by side to the war, all, however, lighting on the 
same sidc--tbe side of their country. The eldest, Tliomas, fell, shot 
through the heart in the deadly "Hornet's Nest" of Shiloh, and he now 
sleeps in an unmarked grave by the quiet waters of the Tennessee. The 
next, serving four yeaos and veteranizing, lives, but is almost a physical 
wreck, his liealth laid upon the altar of liis country. The third and 
youngest is still pretty well, I thank you; but IMr. Chairman, I want it 
distinctly understood that so long as I have a memory to remember what 
Thomas fought for, so long as I know that for nearly a quarter of a cen- 
tury his widow and children have struggled without that gallant prop, 
(turning to Mr. Norwood) Scottish though he was in origin, I feel not 
called upon to get down on my bended knee in the Capitol of my country 
(with all due respect to the gentleman from Georgia) and apologize for 
Thomas' death, for William's ruined health, or for myself." 

The blood of the Twelfth Iowa was evidently up once more and no- 
body came within his reach, who did not feel the stroke of the old Iowa 
soldier's vv'rath. That speech illustrating in the most effective way his 
ability to take care of himself in the rough and tural)le engagements 
which have always been common la the House of Representatives was the 
beginning of a long series of parliamentary achievements which have 
given him a permanent place among the popular leaders of our times. 
Few men of this generation have made a more profound impression upon 
the national life. He has been identiiied with the business of the govern- 
ment for so many years that bis departure from the House of Representa- 
tives has l»een everywhere deplored as a grevious loss to the public ser- 
vice: for leaving out of consideration altogether his abilities to do the 
work so long entrusted to him by his district, it has never happened to 
any other citizen of Iowa, and to few others in any state, to secure the 
training in public atrairs which comes from an uninterrupted activity of 
more than twenty years in the House of Representatives. 

I had the opportunity of knowing Colonel Henderson with a special 
degree of intimacy for the twelve years beginning with the administra- 
tion of General Harrison, during which we served together in the House. 
He was already counted among the old members when I first entered, 
and in the memoi'abic contest for the Speakership of the Fifty-first Con- 
gress he had a most tiattering support drawn from all sections of the 
country. ISIr. Reed won the prize and Colonel Henderson at (mce became 
a m.eniber of tlie little group of experienced legislators to whom the 
management of the business of the House wns committed. And from 



o,, EKill'lll iMirxiox 

that time, whether in the council chamber or upon the lloor, he remain- 
ed one of the chief supporters and defenders of the policies and program 
of tlie party to which he \vas attached. 

When Mr. Reed retired from public life, Colonel Henderson was so 
generally looked upon as his natural successor that one after another the 
able men who were selected Ijy the partiality of the community in which 
they lived, to contest the honor with him, withdrew in his favor, leaving 
him in po.ssession of the field without a dissenting voice. A good many 
people were disturbed by the fear that no one could fill Mr. Heed's place; 
yet after four years in the chair it was the testimony of friends and foes 
alike that the oHice had sutfered no disparagement during the period of 
Colonel Henderson's administration. He exliibited all of Mr. Eeed's 
masterful talent for controling the House, and with it a suavity of man- 
ner, a kindly sympathy, a thoughtful regard for the feelings of others, 
wliich were sometimes wanting in the cruder methods of his predecessor. 

He put aside the honors of that oflice at a time when he enjoyed the 
confidence of both sides of the House, and might have looked forward to 
a future undisturbed by the ordinary vicissitudes of politics. Those of 
us who have come here today are not thinking so much as we look upon 
this statue, of the gavel which he holds in his hand as of the crutch he is 
leaning upon. The blaze and glare of oHicial station seem dull and com- 
monplace: the personal contentions which sometimes acid to the cares of 
the public service, a burden too heavy to be borne, are all forgotten; the 
mistakes, the failings and mischances which are a part of our poor human 
frailty, are left to the cliarity which remembereth that we are dust. 
The presence here of these bent and white-haired men, whatever the 
artist may have intended, makes this a soldier's monument. Wlien you 
look upon it you will think of a worn and faded uniform of blue, and 
when those who come after you, your children and grandchildren, stand 
about tliisspot with curious interest, they may have to ask what the 
gavel in the uplifted liand is for, but they will know without asking any- 
body what the crutch means; for they will hear the echo of Lincoln's sol- 
emn call for troops and Kirkwood's stern demand that Jov.a should do 
her duty. And right well were all the proclamations answered, though 
they followed one after another like alarm bells in the night; for from 
her sparse and meager population, there marched into the field, eighty 
thousand fighting men, (»ne in eight of all who lived within her borders, 
men, women, and children. More than 2,000 o( them fell in battle. 
Over 10,000 died in tiie hospitals and the prisons. Your comrade, there 
on that pedestal, is only one of 10,000 more who came home disabled by 
wounds or stricken by disease; so that over one quarter of the whole en- 
listed force of Iowa was literally a sacrifice upon the altar of the Tlepulj- 
lic. 

The y(^ars whicii have gone since your last battle was fought, have 
made sad havoc with tlie broken ranks, as your own roll call shows; but 
a goodly number still survive: and throughout the land wherever an Iowa 
veteran lives, from thousands of humble homes, there has today gone up 
to Heaven a soldier's blessing upon Ihe name and fame of David B. Hen- 
derson. 




DAVID B. HENDERSON. 



IN WAR A HERO, IN PRACE A STATESMAN, A TRUE lOWAN. HE VOriUNTARII.Y I,AID 

DOWN THE SCEPTEK OF POWER WHEN HE STOOD CONSPICUOUsT.Y THE 

ITNfHAIJ,EX(iED LEADER OF THE AMKlilCAN CONCiRESS. 



TWELFTH IGWA 21 

Reunion Proceedings. 

Assemble in pavilion at 7 p. m. 

After entertaining music by Fayette drum corps and band, which 
was inspiring, and, for the time carried us back again to 61-5, the reunion 
was called to order by the president, Lieutenant Dunham, and Mr. A. H. 
Loomis proceeded to deliver his address of welcome and was followed by 
Hon. R. W. Tirrill of the 12th. 

Mr. President and Friends, members of Twelfth Iowa: — 

In bidding you welcome to Clermont it is with a 
realization, that no words can fully express the pleasure we feel in having 
you with us upon this occasion. We appreciate the great honor it is to 
our little city to have so large and distinguished an assembly for its 
guests and we greet you, old and young; soldiers of war and citizens of 
peace, we greet you and bid you a most cordial welcome. 

And especially t(t you members of the 12th Iowa, who have seen fit to 
lionor us by holding your quadrennial reunion where at this time, in be- 
half of the citizens of Clermont we bid you a most hearty welcome. 
Clermont feels greatly honored in having you as her guest; noted as your 
regiment is for its many acts of valor upon the field of battle, to which 
our distinguished Senator paid such eloquent tribute this afternoon. 

We welcome you the more heartily because of the special interest Cler- 
mont has always had in the 12th Iowa, in which so many of the noble 
sons of Fayette county served, with credit to themselves and the honor 
of their State. Yes, Clermont is proud to entertain such a Company and 
long will this day be remembered as one in which we were privileged to 
bivouac with one of the luavest regiments that ever marched beneath 
the stars and stripes. ( Why l>less you Col. Henderson, if you could have 
had these veterans down at Dubuque yesterday or the day before, you 
would have quelled that riot among the car strike men so quickly, Senator 
Allis(»n would probably never have known that there was trouble in his 
city and would have been with us at this time. ) 

Realizing that such an occasion as this may not offer itself to Cler- 
mont again, we ask you, members of the 12th, to surrender, uncondi- 
tionally, as prisoners of our charge, not even asking for a parole, before 
the time of your exchange to the better accomodations of your own homes. 

It is a happy thought, my friends, that so long as patriotism and 
reverence for our country exists the Nation need have no fear from ex- 
ternal foes, or internal problems, and those monuments will serve to in- 
spire the highest sentiments of patriotism in the hearts of the young, 
and perpetuate the memory of the men I have the honor to welcome and 
whose presence adds a'sacredness to those blocks of marble and tablets of 
bronze. 

God bless you, and may the teachings of this day lead us to a greater 
love of friends, of home, of country, and of God. 

A. H. LOOMIS, 
Secretary of Clermont Soldiers' Monumentary Association, 



•2-2 KKJIITH IM:rM()N 

Mr. A. H. Looinis, and Citizens of Cli'ini<*ni:— 

Jndividually 1 have some knowl- 
edge of the generous hospitality of some of the good people of your little 
city and I know that a large number of the comrades of the Twelfth Iowa 
Infantry, whom 1 represent here this evening, and in whose l)chalf I now 
speak, have been recipients of the bounteous hospitality of your people 
in times past, but today, the welcome that we have received by your kind 
and forceful words, has been even now, already fully verified by the reali- 
ties this day experienced; and in behalf of my comrades, whose senti- 
ments I voice, I now heartily thank you, and your people through you, 
for these manifestations of good cheer and loyal fellowship, as well as 
your generous hospitality so kindly proffered. 

While perhaps, we are right in l)elieving, that as soldiers of the late 
rebellion, we are entitled to the generous hospitality accorded us by your 
citizens, yet we must not, and 1 trust we do not, lose sight of the fact, 
that the great civil war of Gl to tj5 was not crushed out wholly by us, but 
by the aid and a.ssistance of the great loyal heart of Americans, meaning 
the soldiery and the loyal men and women of this coiuitry, typical exam- 
ples of whom you find in your own little city in the persons of Gov. and 
Mrs. Larrabee. 

I have known Governor Larraljee (luile well ever since we met at 
West Union in 18(>;i and nominated our own AVm. J?. Allison for his first 
term in Congress, and since that day it has pleased us both, to labor to- 
gether in his interest and in the interest of this Dist rict, as well as in the 
interest of this great commonwealth and nation, unl il we have .seen him 
grow from that small beginning in 1803, to a position in the affairs of the 
Nation, and in the hearts of his countrymen, never before excelled by any 
man or statesman in this or any other country. 

At another convention, we joined forces to nominate another man for 
congress, who after many years of faithful service, during which time he 
battled with southern chivalry for the rlgiU, until be was recognized as 
the leader of bis associates in the lower House of Congress, and tinally 
elevated to the Speakership in that great body, by reason of his untiring 
zeal,- acknowledged executive ability, and honest devotion to principles. 

Col. I). B. Henderson was one of the boys (»f tlie Twelfth Iowa Infan- 
try, and he is the conspicuous tlgure, whom we delight to honor here 
today, throuiih the gcnerosily of your wcnthy citizens. (Jovernor and 
Mrs. Larrabee. 

But after all. Allison anil Henderson are only our boys, in a .sense: 
they do our bidding, su!).ject to the criticisms of tlieir i-onsiituency, for or 
against, right or wrong, not a bed of roses after all; yet we have always 
been proud of them, glad to hear them spoken of in foreign lands as 
among the greatest statesmen of the Nation; and yet they are in our 
keeping and in a measure, subject to our dictations. 

Col. Henderson could not if he would, prevent Gov. Lari'abee from 
erecting that statue yonder, he must submit in this, as in many otiier 
tilings: of course, he has to sonic (>xtent blocked the wheels of his future 
political progress to which he has so long been attached, liul we will soon 
have him back in line and put him on double duty. 

Mr. Mavor and Cit izens of Cleinioni : In a senst\ we meet you here 



TWELl Til IOWA 23 

on common grounds, to commemorate the stirring events of 01 to 65 in 
wiiicii we all had a common interest. 

The loyalty and patriotic devotion of your citizenship furnished the 
banner company of our regiment, and proudly did your boys maintain the 
honor of that starry emblem. 

That old flag handed down to us by the fathers of the revolution, 
preserved in its purity by tlie comrades of the Grand Army of the Repub- 
lic and the loyal men and women of this great country of ours, lias been 
carried by our boys across the mighty waters of the deep, to the far away 
islands of the sea, planting it upon the ramparts of universal brother- 
hood, and in the mighty presence of the nations of the world, have un- 
furled ifs silken folds, to liuman freedom and constitutional liberty. 

n. W. Tin It ILL. 

Another pleasing feature following the address of Comrade Tirrill was 
a very beautiful song, artistically rendered by Miss Stella Spears, a daugh- 
ter of Com.rade Hart Spears of the 12tli, which received hearty applause. 

A reading, "The Man Without a Country," was then listened to with 
rapt attention by Miss Beulali Wright who held her audience spell- 
bound from first to last, receiving a storm of applause upon retiring. 

Shiloh as seen today by Comrade P. 11. Woods, of Co. C. and W. F. 
McCarron of Co. T. as follows: 



Shiloh Battlefield. 

p. R. Woods. 

When a camp tire is called, every old soldier who attends, is expected 
to bring a rail, lohelp keep the fire burning. I thought I would try to 
bring one that had not been too much charred. So 1 liave selected for a 
short talk, our recent visit to Sliiloh battlefield. 

My wife accompanied me on tlie trip. 1 assure you it was a very en- 
joyable occasion. We avoided the crowd and had a most excellent oppor- 
tunity of looking over the grounds, and studying the positions and move- 
ments of both armies. 

We arrived at Paducah, Ky., by rail, May KJth, and took passage on a 
steamer for our trip of two hundred and twenty-seven miles up the Ten- 
nessee River, to Pittsburg Landing. There is mucli travel and tratHc on 
these steamers, and our progress was slow. We were two days and most 
of three nights on the boat, reaching Pittsburg Landing at 2o"lock on the 
UKirning of the Itith. 1 saw nothing especially familiar along the 
river, only that it is a lieautiful stream. We passed old l-'t. 

Henry, the oljjeclive point of our first campaign. Little could be 
seen, but the outlines of the old earthworks. On the boat, both up the 
river and on our return, we met many people of all ages, natives of Ken- 
tucky and Tennessee. They were kind and courteous, and we talked 
freelv of the events of the war. and of conditions in the South. We 



24 EIGHTH REUNION 

learned much of the state of society in the border states, alter the close 
of the war; of the hatred, the treachery and brutality. But time and a 
wise administration of public affairs, have greatly molliliod these condi- 
tions. 

When we reached Pittsburg Landing, my old college friend and army 
comrade, Major Reed, was there to greet us. The Major had a team at 
his disposal, and we spent the greater part of the tine days wo were at 
the park, driving over the field, to the various points of interest. 

The National Park and Cemetery contains about four thousand acres, 
and more will be purchased. Much has been done t(» beautify the 
grounds, but the work is not completed. The underbrush, old logs and 
rail fences have been removed and about twentj^-live miles of road, run- 
ning throughout the park, have been graveled. Otherwise, the grounds 
are left, as far as possible, unchanged. Some of the old trees, badly 
scarred by shells and bullets, are still standing. But the greater number 
have fallen to decay, and others grown up in their places; so that the 
general appearance of the field is much as it was at the time of the battle. 

There are iron tablets marking the locations of the lines of battle, of 
both union and rebel armies, during both days; markers showing locations 
of camps, also, historical tablets. Each division head<iuarters is indicated 
by a pyramid of shell, on a base of granite: and where a general oliicer, 
either Federal or Confederate, was killed or mortally wounded, a monu- 
ment is erected, consisting of a thirty-two pound Parrot gun, surrounded 
by four pyramids of shells, all on a base of granite. Two mounted cannon 
mark the position of each battery. 

The states of Iowa, Illinois, Indiana, Ohio, and Pennsylvania, have 
erected monuments for their regiments engaged in the battle. Other 
states will probably follow their example. Most of the monuments are of 
granite with bronze tablets. Each regimental monum.?nt is erected 
where the regiment held its position in the battle. That of the Twelfth 
Iowa stands where the colors were located, during the day. Iowa and 
Illinois have also, each erected a state monument: the former being by 
far, the finer. The bronze work is not yet placed in position on the 
Iowa monument, owing to a dispute as to the quality of the bronze. 
When completed, it will stand seventy-four and a half feet to the top of 
the spread eagle, that is perched on top of the globe that surmounts the 
column. This will cost $25,000, while each of the eleven regimental mon- 
uments will cost about $2,000. 

The cemetery, located on a beautiful site, near the river, contains 
about four thousand dead, many of them unknown; each j^rave being 
marked by a marble slab. It is inclosed with a stone wall and iron gates, 
and is beautifully ornamented by a variety of native trees, and others 
transplanted; and by a profusion of roses, flowering plants and shrubs. 
There are a number of magnolia trees, all bearing their rich, cream col- 
ored flowers. Over the stone walls, climb here and there, the honey- 
suckle and trailing vines. On the river front are two cannon mounted, 
as though standing guard over the "bivouac of the dead," while the stars 
and stripes floats from a staff near by. At convenient intervals along 
the graveled walks, are iron tablets, bearing poetical quotaticms fntm 
that beautiful patriotic poem by O'Hara. 




IOWA STATE MONUMENT ON SHILOH BATTLEFIELD. 



'r\vi:i.i"'rii !«>wa -iry 

V\\' visiici! iiiir Twelfth Iowa c ;mpi!^;4- iii-omid, and stdf.-ci al Iho edge 
of Lhe biuSr, overlouking the little spring brarielj where Reed and I were 
pei'foraiing our Sunday !n<»niing abluLions, when the long roll rang out 
upon t'ne air. on the morning of that fateful day. We drove out along the 
road where we had marched tliat morning, to the place where we took 
our position in the line of battle along the edge of the Duncan field, a 
mile and a half to the front. Here we stood, where we had stood forty- 
one years before, and looked out over the flcld. In my imagination, 1 
fought over again, my \,\'st of that fearful conflict. I could see the rebels 
marching along in Mie edge of the woods at the farther side of the field, 
and take {josition behind the rail fence. I could see them charge across 
the field, three t lines, as far as the ravine near the middle, where we 
always stopped them Ity our fire. Then, as they advanced through the 
woods at our left, we drove them back in the same way. In every charge, 
we repulsed tliem with fearful slaughter. Then as we turned from our 
position in this '-iiorneL's Nest," and v/alked back over our line of retreat, 
the whole panorama was before me. I could seethe rebel force directly 
in our rear, as we drove them back. Then I could see the rebel lines ad- 
vancing on both sides, our own forces falling back before them. Then, as 
we attempted, by double-quici^, to get out at the gap, tliat we could see 
was rapidly closing, the retreating soldiers on either side broke into our 
ranks, and our line was c<mipletely disorganized, and we were practically 
surrounded. Et was impossible to fire, without shooting each other. The 
relwls were pouring in a murderous fire upon us, and men were falling by 
the score. I remember many incidents connected with this terrible 
scene: comrades falling all around me, bullets whizzing by, like so many 
bees, and of efforts to rally the men. Here, is where we surrendered. I 
recall, very distinctly, the circumstance of Capt. Edgington surrendering 
his sword to Gen. Pt)lk. At this point, a tablet is placed, commemorat- 
ing our surrendoi', which occurred at about half past five o'clock in the 
evening. 

I will not attempt, and would fail if I did to describe my emotions, 
as I stood on that old battlefield, on the line of battle, where we held our 
position during that fearful conflict; my wife standing by my side, as 
interested as though she had passed through all these experiences with 
me: and later, as we stood on the very spot where the surrender took 
place, and still later, as we visited the field where we were first held as 
prisoners, during that night of terror and of storm. No one who has not 
passed through such an experience, can understand or realize what it 
means. 

It will be worth the while of any comrade, who can do so, to visit the 
Shiloh National Park and Cemetery, and take his wife with him. Go 
when the secretary. Major Reed, is there. For some years he has made a 
thorough and systematic study of the battle, and is better informed as to 
all its details, both from a Federal and Confederate standpoint, than any 
other man. You will find him a comrade, and a competent and obliging 
guide. 

The battle of Shiloh was one of the most sanguinary of the Civil "War. 
The percentage of killed and wounded was greater than at any other 

battle of that great conflict. 

Phtlo R. Woods, 

Co. C, 12th Iowa. 



i:i(;nTii iJKi'xioN 



V. I-. McCiirron. 



A visit, to the battlefield "f Sliil.li for tlie lirsl time, ;rfter an absence 
therefidni of tovly-one years by a man who, just leaving his 'teens, had 
l)een a soldier in that awful sfiu/gle of young Anu-riean val'ir, calls viv- 
idly to mind the scenes that then and there transpired. 

T. J. Lindsay, a soldier in an Ohio regiment, who was desperately 
wounded in the face on Sunday, and left for dead, and who suffered eight 
days after before he received proper attention, four of which he liad 
nothing to eat, and wh(jse regiment lost fifty per cent of the number 
engaged, speaking of his first visit to that field in later years says: 
'•There is an epoch in the life of every man wliether it be of misfortune 
or otherwise, tlie vivid recollection of which time cannot mar. "Shiloh," 
he says, "was my life epoch. 1 can see every thing as though it were 
yesterday. The great gray columns as they came chasing and clieering 
through the open woods and fields, upon an army preparirig for inspection 
and review, and listening to the sweet southern sung birds, as tliey wel- 
comed the rising sun, but were soon hushed by the v\ hi/zing, murderous 
'Minnie' ". 

Further describing the scene on Sunday niglit aller i he two armies, 
exhausted by a day of bloody work, rested on their arms, or maneuvered 
for new positions, this soldier who heard it all, describes tlu' scene as 
follows: "Sunday night was more terril-.le tlian can possibly be pictured. 
Tlie air was filled with pleading cries for help and water, and to add to 
the lio! ror, the gunboats were throwing their heavy shells all night among 
the helpless wounded of botli sides, setting fire to the woods in many 
places, and burning to death many helpless men wlio might liave been 
saved. Heaven seemed to take pity, for before midnight a heavy deluge 
of rain came and put out tlie tires." I liave quoted from tliis soldier 
because it so fully corroborates my own recollections. Tiie present gen- 
eration can scarcely realize what the feelings of an olfl soldier are on 
recalling scenes like these in which lie was a participant. 

May 30, 1903 was tlie first time I had found it convenient to re-visit 
the Shiloh battle field, and this was in response to an invitation by the 
G. A. R.. Department of Tennessee, that being the occasion of the annual 
decoration of the graves of the Nation's dead. The route from Chatta- 
nooga is by way of Corinth, Miss., the battle field being about twenty-two 
miles from Corintli, by private conveyance, over tlie same route taken by 
Major-General Albert Sidney Jolinson when he deliberately marched his 
43,960 veterans of tlie Army of the Mississippi on April 4th and 5th, 18H2 
to attack Maj. Gen. U. S. Grant, with his Army of the Tennessee, 39,830 
strong, then just camped and resting in repose on the bank of the Tenne.s- 
see, at Pittsburg Landing. 

I would not dare venture in the limited space liere at command, even 
though it was desirable to do so, to give an extended account of the im- 
pressions now upon my mind of the scenes of that awful conflict, or even 
attempt a description of the battle as I saw it, though of the 80,000 men 
engaged, there are no doubt several thousand yet living, many of whom 
together with their descendants, are within the boundaries of this vicin- 
ity, who would be interested in any additional account that might be 
written. There have been volumes written about the battle of Shiloh, 
and considerable criticism indulged against Gen. Grant, much of which 



TWELl'TJl IOWA 27 

was unjust, l)iil souieof which was des.i-ved, but suffice to say, the battle 
opened before daylight on the morning of April 6, 18G2, with an attack 
upon the federal army, amounting to a surprise, and raged with unabated 
fury until dusk. Tlie command to which 1 belonged at the time, the 12th 
Iowa Infantry, was stationed in front of what was known as the "Duncan 
lield," and with several other Iowa regiments, was in Gen. W. H. L. 
Wallace's division. As the day's onslaught closed, ray regiment with 
several others, found ilu'-niselvcs surrounded, and were captured, our 
immediate captor being Gin. Polk. I remember, also, very distinctly of 
seeing Gen. Hardee who came among us commanding us to throw down 
our arms. Some of us instead of doing so, broke our guns as best we could, 
across the roots of trees. 1'^ is interesting t,o me to know that I easily 
recognized the exact spot wiiere my regiment lay, aided in doing so by a 
monument of the regiment ero-cled on the exact line we fought all day 
and with terrible effect repulsed charge after charge made across that 
field by tiie enemy. A tree pierced witli carmon balls which stood upon 
our line, stands there yet, scarred as many veterans are, with old age and 
the wounds it received. 1 1 is needless to say that I eagerly secured relics 
from these spots, one of wliich is a piece of rotten wood from the stump 
of a tree which I am satisiied is the one against which I broke my gun. 

In short, except that the undergrowth is removed, and other trees 
have grown up, Sliiloh battle Held iooks as fauiiliar to me today as it did 
forty one years ag; >. 

The forces engaged, or present for duty, on April (>, were, "Army of 
the Tennessee," under General Grant— 39,830, Army of the Mississippi 
under General Albert Sidney .Johnson- -43,9«8. 

There arrived on the night of April 6, and reinforced General Grant 
in the battle of the next day. Gen. Lew Wallace, wii:h 5,000 and the 
"Army of the Ohio," under Gen. Buell, about 18,000. 

The casualties were as follows: Army of the Tennessee, killed, 1513; 
wounded, G,G01; missing, 2,830; total, 10,944. Army of the Ohio, killed, 
241; wounded, 1807; missing 55; total 2103; making total killed of 1754: 
wounded, 8,408: and missing, 2,885; or grand total loss 13,047. The confed- 
erate losses were, killed 1728: wounded 8,012; missing, 959; total, 10,699: 
total losses, both sides, 23,746. It will here be observed that the aggre- 
gate lo.sses of the two armies at Shiloh were exceeded by very few of the 
heaviest battles of the war, notably Gettysburg, where the losses were 
over 40,000, Wilderness, 25,000, Chickamauga nearly 27,000. 

The park embraces about 4000 acres, and is beautifully preserved, in 
charge of commissioners as follows: Colonel Cornelius Cadle, formerly of 
the Eleventh Iowa, now residing in Ohio, chairman; Major J. H. Ash- 
croft, of the Twenty-sixth Kentucky, of Kentucky; Colonel J osiah Patter- 
son, of the First Alabama, confederate, now of Memphis, Tennessee; and 
Major D W. Reed of the Twelfth Iowa, historian of the park, now living 
in Evanston, lUiaois. Two other Twelfth Iowa men are employed, F. A. 
Large, guardian, and L. J. Lewis, in charge of the masonry. Mr. Atwell 
Thompson, formerly connected with the Chickamauga park, is resident 
engineer, and Mr. W. S. Keller is his assistant. 

There are about twenty-live miles of splendidly graveled roads built 
along the lines occupied by mainroad, during the battle. There are over 
400 tablets and markers to designate all important positions of troops of 



28 Klull'ill ilKl'MON 

both armies, Uie "Aniiy of iho IVnuossee" being tlesii^iKitcfl by markers 
paintefl bhie. the "Army of I'.ic Cbio," yellow and ibe coiiforierales red. 

MoNT .MliNTS KliKCTKD. 

There are momimeiits erected by the several sliilis as follows:— 
Illinois. ;>y; ()hi(». .{4: Iiuliana. ::!: Inwa. 11: and Pennsylvania, 1. The 
goverrnnent hasereeted monumeiilslo mark where general oMicers were 
killed, including that to (Jen. Albert Sidney .Johnson. 

Iowa had in this battle her Second. Tiiird, Sixth. Seventh, Eigluh, 
Eleventh. Twelfth, Thirteenth, J-ourteiiiih, Fifteenth and Sixteenth 
regiments, to ail of vvliieh handsome monuments mark the most conspic- 
uous positions occupied. In addition, Iowa has erected a magnilicent 
monument 7-4 feet high N\i!li ;i ba.se 'Mx'M feet, on the nii-st conspicuous 
spot on the field. 

TriiO NATIONAL CKMK'rKUV. 

Tlie most beaut il'ul spot in all these 4,000 acres, is the ten acres on 
the high blutt" overlooking tb.e river v^hcre sleep the remains of over .{,600 
of the heroes who gave up their lives for the preservation of the union. 
The thoughts that came to my mind of scenes which had their termina- 
tion in this silent city of the dead, crowd upon me, but 1 can only stop to 
say, that on these memorial occasions, this cemetery is visited by thous- 
ands of people. There were fully 4,000 people at the park on this year's 
mem(»rial day, notwithstanding heavy rains. They came in wagons, bug- 
gies, horseback, by boat, c»n foot, many of them from 50 miles distant- 
men, women and children. The cemetery is in charge of Capt. Shaw, to 
whom with his excellent wife, Maj. Ashcraft, and to Capt. N. M. Kemp, 
Commander of Fielding Hurst Po.st No. T, O. A. E., at Adamsville, I am 
particularly indebted for courtesies shown. 

I regret very much the unavoidable absence at the time, of Major 
Reed, to whom the country is indebted for reliable data connected with 
the park, and to whom 1 am indebted for the reliable statistics given in 
this letter. Maj. Ashcraft was the only one of the commissioners who 
was present at Shiloh on this occasion, but they all bear the reputation 
of efficient men. and the result of their labors will soon make of the Shiloh 
National Military Park, one of the most delightful memorials of Ameri- 
can valor on the continent. 

It needs very little previous preparation by a participant in one of 
the great battles of the civil war, for a speech on an occasion like that at 
Shiloh on Memorial day, and the people who attend are good listeners. 
There are plenty of "both sides" represented in an audience at Shiloh, 
but I think, from the enthusiasm displayed for the "Stars and Stripes," 
they all appreciate the spirit of the words, 

"The blue and the gray 

In fierce array 

No local hates dissever, 

Strike hands once more 

From shore to shore, 

The North and South forever." 

W. F. McCarrox. 

Co. I. 12th Iowa. 




FRONT OF SHILOH MONUMENT. 

Erected at southi^ust corner t)f Duncan Field. May. 1!*».U 




BACK OF SHILOH MOXUilEXT- 
' - . . ]t?»irwt r- '--;-.-■ 

-^li ai^uui iju-»r^"' To m«^1 a 



Ttii- r>-.' 



■ . and 

~. T*aiTn-.i<-fv, et^.. 4'« 
,, ' ind « men «<.nri"dt-d 

Dji-o.s.^. T..;i,47.- t'. -•--.- a:.u .. officer!, and »C n>en 

i»f jbe w..nr,d«l 16 di«l of their wonud>: of tbe mi^inr 4 wer* Derer »fterwj.rd< 
b«ird rm«: tJk-j were doabDes^ killed; of liie mi^in? 71 died in vnZlo ""*^'^'*'^ 

LisI <«f /■jasaallM>> siTeti on pMfes *r toS. 



TWELFTH IOWA 29 

List of Casualties. 

KILLED. 

Co. A — Lt. Geo. W. Moir, Whitcomb Fairbanks, Barton H. Johnson, 
Keuben G. King, William SLotsen. Co C. — Corp. Thomas Henderson, 
Charles Larson, Cluules Pendleton. Co. D — Lt. Jason D. Ferguson, James 
P. Ayers, Daniel Lulher. Co. E — Israel W. Fuller, William L. Pauley. 
Co. F— Corp. A born D. Campbell. Co. G— Ole G. Olson. Co. I— Thomas 
II. Wilson. Co K— Lewellyn Larrabee. Total 17. 

DIED OF WOUKDS. 

Co. B— Charles King. Co. C — Henry George. Co. E — Jacob Howrey 
Charles Johnson, iSamuel J. Lichty, Thomas Porter, John P. Thompson. 
Co. F— Aborn Crippen, David Clark, John A. McCullouch, Joseph Pate, 
Allen Ware. Orry Wood. Co. H— Edgar A. Ward. Co. K— Sylvester 
Grillin, John Moulton. Total 1(5. 

MISSING JN ACTION AND NfiVKll FOUND. 

Co. A — John Moran, William Lelier. Co. C — Geo. W. Grannis. Co., 
K— "W. n. H. Fuller. Total 4. 

DIED IN PKISON. 

Co. A — Israel Hall, Roswell F. Quivey. Co. B — Lt. Lyman H. Merrill, 
Sergt. Daniel Harbaugh, Corp. Frank E. Hancock, Corp. Madison J. Roe, 
John L. Bryant, Jens. Hanson, Ole Hanson, Leem Kleven, Henry Kuck, 
Chas. H. Noyes, Edwin R. Perry, Ira E. Peck, Simeon Peck, Knud Thron- 
son, William M. White. Co. C— Corp. Samuel F. Brush, Corp. Daniel D. 
Warner, James L. Ayers, Henry Beadle, John Quivey, Willard E. Simer, 
Samuel Stone, Charles Sigman. Co. D— Robt. McClain, Warren A. Flint, 
Lewis Snell. Co. E--Corp. John I. Smith, John Ahrens, William O. Bird, 
John F. Koch, Hiram HoisingLon, Ellas Moon, Washington Richmond, 
Milton Rood, Stephen Story, Joseph W. Johnson. Co. F — William H. 
Barney, William Koltonbach, David N. Lillibridge, William H. Mason, 
Elijah M. Overocker, Thomas Otis, George Parks, Ira W. Roberts, Charles 
P. Toney. Co. G — Lt. Joseph F. Nickerson, Henry Johnson. Co. H— Lt. 
Luther W. Jackson, John H. Byrns, William H. Collins, Thomas Clen- 
denin, James E. Nichols, Royal F. Nutting, Henry L. Richardson, Charles 
E. Richardson, William J. Slack, Julius Ward. Co. I — Lt. John J. Marks, 
Jesse W. Dean, Charles W. Sackett. Co. K— (Jorp. Benj. E. Nash, Corp. 
John Fulton, Corp. Merriam Lathrop, Daniel Dovpner, William T. John- 
son, Geo. Lande, Thomas Sover, Chas. W. Smith, Philander Wilson. 
Total 71. 

STATE OF IOWA. 
ADJUTANT GKNEHAL'S OFFICE. 

Des Moines, June 15th, 1901. 
I, Melvin H. Byers, Adjutant General of the State of Iowa, do hereby 
certify that I have made careful examination of the records of my office 
with respect to the 12th Regiment of Iowa Volunteer Infantry. That 
tlie records of my office show that the foregoing lists of the casualties of 
said regiment at the battle of Shiloh, Tenn., April 6th, 1862, as regards 
the killed in action, died of wounds, missing and never found, and died in 
prison, are true and correct and a complete record of such casualties in 
said regiment at said battle, as shown by the records in this office. 

Melvin H. Byers, 

Adjutant General. 



30 EIGHTH REUNION 

Love Feast. 

After this commenced the "Love Feast" proper. Our inhnitable Col. 
Jack Stibbs, always doing the unexpected thing and doing it correctly, 
led off with a reading "The Man Who Carried a Gun", t'ollovved by selec- 
tions of a similar nature, carrying his audience with him in hiugiiter and 
tears. He was followed by Capt. Soper, Co. D's historian, and Col. Rood, 
a visiting comrade. It Wcr> a jolly good time we had of it, till inidnight 
tatlo(t sounded, "lights out". 

Comrade Soper's Remarks. 

He began by telling a somewhat amusing go;ii, story and applicil it as 
connected with himself and the evening program. 

He then proceeded to speak of the ties formed by life in llic barracks, 
the camp, the march and upon the Held of battle, as being inc :)mparably 
more intimate and lasting than any other, and declared that the only 
ones in any manner approaching this comradeship, are the years of asso- 
ciation in school and at college, in the class roctm, tlie athletic iield and 
society halls; but even these associations are not to be compared to th(«e 
gained by four years of active service in actual war. 

The speaker, who is chairman of the Iowa commission appointed by 
the Governor, under the provision of the act appopriating $50,000 for the 
erection of monuments upon the Battletield of Shiloh, then proceeded to 
explain why the dedication of the Shiloh monuments, which had pre- 
viously been set by the commission for May :50th, 1903, had Ijeen indeli- 
nitely postponed. 

He stated that the monuments were constructed of Barre granite, but 
ornamented with various bronze iigures; that the commission had made a 
careful study of bronze before letting the contracts and provided therein 
that all bronze should be of the character and quality known as United 
States standard bronze, the alloy of which is composed of 90 per cent 
copper, 7 per cent tin and 3 per cent zinc; that important pieces of the 
bronze, including the ball and eagle surmounting the same, weighing 
several tons, had been cast in Italy; that when the bronze was delivered 
at Pittsburg Landing to be erected, careful borings were taken under the 
supervision of the United States Engineer and they were transmitted to 
a responsible firm of chemists and assayers in Chicago, who analyzed the 
alloy, from which the figures were cast, and ascertained that there was 
only from 78 to 82 per cent of copper in that portion of the bronze which 
had been cast in Italy, and a very much larger per cent of zinc than the 
contract provided for; that the commission, by reason of the failure of 
the contractor to furnish the bronze called for by the contract, had felt 
themselves compelled to reject the bronze, which left the state monument 
incomplete and the National Park commission did not permit of the dedi- 
cation of unfinished or incomplete monuments. That also there had 
been some controversy as to the inscriptions to be placed upon the regi- 
mental monuments for the 15th and lOth Iowa, and the matter had been 
appealed to the Secretary of War, which had delayed the completion of 
those two regimental monuments, the others being complete. That it 
was impossible to tell when the monuments would be ready for dedication, 
by reason of the controversies between the contractor and tne commission ; 
but that proper notice would be given of the time fixed for the dedication 




GEN. J. H. STIBBS. 



TVVELl^'TH iOVVA 31 

unci everybwfly, and particularly the survivors of the 12th Iowa, would be 
expected to attend; that a favoraljle season would be selected and a low 
rate of fare would be secured; that the Iowa monuments would be the 
finest on the Held, and that it would well repay a visit to the Park. 

Gen. Stibbs' Readings. 

Since the war, (Jen. .Siibbs, has become quite prominent as an enter- 
tainer, and there has been a continual demand for his services, at reun- 
ion.-; .;!ul camp tires ; where his stories and readings are always received 
with favor. He tells the boys he is proud of the commissions he held, 
and especially proud of the fact that he commanded the 12th Iowa, but 
i!. is his chief delight to tell of his services as an enlisted man, or to recite 
some poem wliicli pays tribute to the worth of the man whoserved in the 
ranks. Below we publish a poem by Comrade C. H. Robinson, of Marion 
county Indiana, which Gen. Stibbs recited for us at our last reunion, and 
which he says describes the man who put down the rebellion. 

THK MAN' WHO CAHIIIED A GUN. 

When giim-visayed war raised his front in the land, 

And the smoke of the tight hid the sun, 
Who was it left home to defend the old Hag? 

'Twas the man who carried a gun. 

When a long day's march was ended at last; 

Though he'd tramped from the rising of the sun; 
Who was it stood guard all night o'er the campV 

'Twas the man who carried a gun. 

And wiii.'n we'd invested tiic enemy's works. 

And had sapping and mining begun; 
Who was it wielded the pick and the spade? 
'Twas the man who carried a gun. 

When the enemy charged on our lines in full force, 

And his victory almost seemed won; 
Who was it hurled back his masses at length? 

'Twas the man wIk) carried a gun. 

And when in retreat, though sullen and grim, 

We were pressed by the rebs on the run; 
Who was it that turned and checked their advance? 

'Twas the man who carried a gun. 
Who was it, I ask, at the end of the fray. 

When the hotly fought field had been won, 
That succored the wounded men left on the Held? 

'Twas the man wlio carried a gun. 
While the otlicers ate all the hospital stores. 

And had all the whisky and fun: 
Who was it lived on what he could steal? 

The man who carried a gun. 
Let all honors due to our officers brave 

Be given for what they have done; 
But never forget that the country was saved 

By the liero uho carried a gun. 



32 EIGHTH REUNION 



BLUE AND GUAY. 



"O, mother, what do they mean by blue? 

And what do they mean by gray?" 
Was heard from the lips of a little child 

As she bounded in from play. 
The mother's eyes tilled up with tears; 

She turned to her darling fair, 
And smoothed away from the sunny brow 

Its treasures of golden hair. 

"V/hy, mother's eyes, are blue, my sweet, 

And grandpa's hair is gray. 
And the love we bear our darling child 

Grows stronger every day." 
"But what did they mean?" persisted the child, 
"For I saw two cripples today. 
And one of them said he fought for the blue. 

The other one, he fought for the gray." 

"Now, he of the blue had lost a leg, 

The other had but one arm. 
And both seemed worn and weary and sad. 

Yet their greeting was kind and warm. 
They told of battles in days gone by, 

Till it made my young blood thrill; 
The leg was lost in the Wilderness fight, 

And the arm on Malvern Hill." 

"They sat on the stone by the farm yard gate 

And talked for an hour or more. 
Till their eyes grew bright, and their hearts seemed warm, 

With fighting their battles o'er. 
And, parting at last, with a friendly grasp, 

In a kindly brotherly way. 
Each called on God to speed the time 

Uniting the blue and gray." 

Then the mother thought of other days- 
Two stalwart boys from her riven; 

How they knelt at her side and lisping, prayed, 
"Our father, which art in heaven." 

How one wore the gray, and the other the blue, 
How they passed away from sight; 

And had gone to the land where gray and blue 
Are merged in colors of light. 

And she answered her darling with golden hair, 

While her heart was sadly wrung 
With the thoughts awakened in that sad hour 

By her innocent, prattling tongue; 
"The blue and the gray are the colors of God; 

They are seen in the sky at even, 
And, many a noble, gallant soul 

Has found them passports to heaven." 

Anon. 



TWELFTH IOWA 33 

Saturday Morning. 

Sunrise salute, with booming of cannon. At eiijht o'clock we assemble 
at pavilion. After music by our drum corps and band, meeting is called 
to order. Col. Stibbs in the chair. Our president, Lieutenant Abner 
Dunham, proceeded to deliver his address, as follows: 

President Dunham. 

Comrades: Once more we meet in reunion, this time at the instance 
of our esteemed fellow citizen, Gov. Larrabee, who invited us to assist 
in the dedicatory exercises of a most beautiful statue erected by him to 
our beloved comrade, Col. D. B. Henderson. 

The occasion is an inspiring one, it will be the bright spot in the 
lives of all present. Those of our comrades unable to be with us, send 
good cheer and join in paying tribute to the comrade whose life has made 
it possible for this reunion, while the spirits of the departed ones hover 
over, cheering on the good work and inviting us to that beautiful realm 
where war is unknown and sickness and death does not enter. 

My comrades, t!ie occasion is one of more than usual interest, we not 
otily live over again the more than four 3'ears of solder's life and renew 
the associations formed during the most trying and thrilling events in 
the history of our country, but this statue leads us to new thoughts. We 
naturally look over our past life and ask what have been the lives of each 
other, a searching investigation reveals the fact that all have been good 
citizens, a very large majority have been reasonably successful in their 
chosen vocations, some have accumulated their full share of this world's 
goods; while one whom this occasion is to honor, has through his great 
ability, kindness of heart and true courage attained a position second 
only in importance to that of the President of the United States, and 
birth alone prevents his aspiring to that exalted position, his career as a 
statesman has been eminently successful and to him many an old sol- 
dier is indebted for the adjustment of claims long deferred, to him many 
if not all of us are under obligations for courtesies and favors shown. 
The day is far distant when the old soldier will have the true friend and 
indefatigable worker for his rights that he has had in the person of Col. 
Henderson, the old, the crippled, the rich, the poor receive the same cor- 
dial greeting, the same careful attention. His voluntary retirement from 
public life is our lo.ss, we hope his gain and we bespeak for him the same 
success in his new undertaking whatever it may be, as has attended him 
during his public career. 

My comrades It is a grand ••'-■■', ^ 1^,^^^ we have been permitted to 
exist ^'•■- :: o'rfcauer part of the 19th century. We have seen our 
country advance from a fourth and third rate power to that of the first 
nation on the face of the globe and it is a satisfaction to feel that each 
has in a greater or less degree contributed to that end. As I look over 
this assemblage of veterans and see the halting step, the wrinkled brow, 
the silvered locks, I realize that our race is nearly run, and that to our 
children must be left the work so well begun and it is a great satisfaction 
that already we have evidences that the charge is to be left in good hands. 

Our early boyhood days were passed during a terribly exciting period 
in the political history of our country, questions agitated the public mind 



34 EIGHTH I{EUNION 

which divided tlie sections, the halls of congress had for years been a 
seething cauldron of impassionate utterances. The newspapers contribut- 
ed to excite the public mind, the officers of government then in power 
were crippling its resources preparatory to the grand struggle, and not 
until the flag was assaulted at 8unii)ter did tlie north awake from the 
sleep of security and peace to tind our country engulfed in the throes of 
terrible war. Awoke to tind our navy scattered to all parts of the eartli, 
our forts and munitions of war in the hands of the conspirators, a Ijank- 
rupt treasury, a very large propoilion of those trained to the art of war 
by the government arrayed against it, in fact the administration of Lin- 
coln found the government practically with bare hands lo begin the sub- 
jugation of that traitorous band who had for yeais l)cen pre!)uring i'or 
this very move. The voice of Lincoln called for the lirst 7."),U00 men, after- 
wards for hundreds of thousands, and hundreds of tiiousands, until our 
ranks niunbered into the millions who, under the guiding hand of Grant, 
retook the forts, retook the arsenals, retook the arms, retook the muni- 
tions of war, reset in the azure folds the stars stolen from our Hag. 
Where, never again shall an enemy's hand dare pluck them out. 

My comrades, you were a part of that immense host, for four long 
years your rallying point v/as that flag, boi'ne by that grand soidiei-, 
Henry Grannis, who seemingly impervious to shot and shell, planted it 
on the front line, and upon it your alignments v.ere proiisptly made. 

You saw sutTering, too awful to describe, in the camp, on the march, 
on the battlefield. You saw death in its most awful formS; you saw starv- 
ation in the prison hells of the south, you savv war in all its terrible de- 
tails, yet this did not deter you when after three years service, and t he 
loss of over one half your number, you re-enlisted, determined to see it 
through. Why follow your footsteps for those long dreary years? His- 
tory is being corrected, and time will yet give to each his true measure. 
Suffice to say that soon rays of light began to appear, followed soon after 
by the unfurling of the Hag of surrender, then we knew our country was 
saved. 

Comrades, it was an awful experience, but it was worth ail it cost. 
For years the result trembled on a balance, but right prevailed and God 
has seen fit to preserve us to see the fruits of victory. 

To my young friends who are visiting with us, let me say that upon 
you will soon rest the fate of our country, the preservation of t hat flag; 
upon you the fate of future generations, largely depend. You may not be 
called upon to engage in the conflict of arms as your fathers have been, 
but you will have battles to fight no less serious. Every generation must 
fight its own battles. It is still true as ever it was that 

"We are living, we are dwelling 
In a grand and awful time — 
In an age on ages telling 
To be living is sublime." 

This, my j'oung friends, is our country. That flag is our flag. Think 
what it has cost to defend it. That flag has been Ijathed in the blood of 
heroes. It is the emblem of our liberty, the symbol of national unity and 
power. It represents home and friends, freedf)m and country. Many of 
us have seen it floating above the smoke of battle. 



TWELFTH IOWA 35 

"Many an eye hath glanced to see 
That banner in the sky." 
Stand by the old flag, boys, stand by the old flag, girls. It is our flag 
handed down to us unimpaired by our ancestors. Let it be transmitted 
to posterity in the same unimpaired condition. 



Flaa of Co. "K." 

Resolved, That the Twelfth Iowa association accept with gratitude 
the dear old flag of Co. K, that was carried by the Twelfth Iowa Infantry 
at the battle of Corinth, Miss., Oct. 3 and 4, 1862, and presented to the 
association by the widow of a dear comrade, Charles E. Merriam, and the 
sympathy of the association is unanimously tendered to Mrs. Merriam on 
account of the great loss she sustained in the death of a noble husband. 

Pk,esolved, That the president and secretary of the association cause 
to be prepared a careful and authentic history of the flag of Co. K, carried 
by the regiment at Corinth and certify the same and transmit the same 
with the flag to the governor of the state of Iowa with the request that 
both be deposited with other battle flags of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry 
in the archives of the state. 

This flag was presented to Company "K", 12th Iowa by the ladies of 
IIoi>kinton, Delaware, Co., Iowa, in November 1861. Upon the organiza- 
tion of the Union Brigade after the battle of Shiloh, it became the regi- 
mental flag of tlxat organization and was used as such during the siege of 
Coriuth, at the battle of Corinth and until December 1862 when the 
Union Brigade v»'as disolved. 

At the battle of Corinth the Union Brigade was attached to Hackle- 
man's brigade of Davies' division, and on October 4th occupied a position 
on the Purdy road between the railroad depot and battery Powell. It 
was dercely attacked by the confederates and in a hand to hand conflict 
lost, in a few minutes, one third of the men engaged. Every officer but 
three of liie Union Brigade was killed or wounded. Among the wounded 
were Lt. Col. Coulter and Lt. D. B. Henderson. Three color bearers in 
succession went down and the flag was for a moment in the hands of the 
enemy, but its defenders rallied and drove the assailants back and Act. 
Serg't. Maj. J. D. Cole recovered the flag and raised it to its place but 
was almost immediately shot through the breast and crawled to the 
rear carrying the flag with him. The stains on the flag were made by the 
blood of Serg't Cole, and perhaps others of its gallant defenders. 

Gen. Davies in his official report commends the Union Brigade for 
its gallant rescue of its flag and for its assistance in recovering battery 
Powell. 

Surgeon Finley, of the 12th Iowa, says he saw the flag go down three 
times in that "Pot-Metal Hell" and as often come up again; that the staff 
was shot away and replaced, in the midst of the battle, by a staff captured 
from the enemy; that nearly half of the Union Brigade was piled up, 
dead or wounded, around the flag when Serg't. Major. J. D. Cole received 
what was supposed to be his death wound, and carried the flag to the 



36 EIGHTH REUNION 

rear. Serg't. J. D, Cole, in a privater letter in answer to a question recent- 
ly asked of him, tells in his modest way the part he took in the action as 
follows: 

"I can remember but little of tiie light until I saw the colors fall. 
One of the I4th Iowa, I think, carried the colors when the battle com- 
menced. I took the colors and advanced to the front and alligned myself 
with the colors to the right and the General and his Aids rallied the men 
to the colors, they fell back again and left me between the two tires. The 
General then waved his sword for me to fall back and the men were again 
formed on the colors. As I stood there I was wounded and when I saw 
the blood pouring from my breast I carried the colors back and when I 
was looking for water, an ambulance man of the 8tli Iowa told me that 
he would get me water if I would lie down. I placed the Hag on the porch 
of a house and laid down on the floor. When tiie water came I gave the 
man my watch and chain and told him to save himself as the bullets were 
coming through the house. He told me afterwards that the General sent 
to know my name but he could not tell him. Ct)l. Coulter and Lt. Hen- 
derson were wounded about the same time. 1 have little remembrance 
of what occurred after that time." 



Abneu Dunham, Pres. 



G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 



Executive Chambeh, Sept. 2.3, 1903. 

Abner Dunham, President 12th Iowa Vet. Vol. 

Infantry Reunicm Ass'n, Manchester, Iowa: 

My dear Sik: — I beg to acknowledge the receipt, at the hands of 
Richard P. Clarkson, Esq., of the flag of Company K, 12th Iowa Infantry, 
and the resolutions reciting its history and directing that the flag be 
transmitted to the Governor of the State of Iowa, and that both flag and 
resolutions be deposited with other battle flags of the 12th Icvva Infantry 
in the archives of the State. 

I cannot permit this formal acknowledgment to leave me without 
adding a word that sceu:is appropriate to the occasion. This flag, 
although faded and torn, is rich with the most sacred memories of Ameri- 
can courage and patriotism. So long as it shall endure it will teach to 
this and ccraing generations the noblest lesson of citizenship, and I pro- 
foundly hope that those who look upon it in future years may be worthy 
of the men of 1861. It shall be placed with its fellow flags, and shall be 
given all the care and honor the State can bestow upon it. 

With high regard, I am 

Yours very truly, 

AuJEiff B. Cummins. 



TWELFTH IOWA 37 

The Stars on the Flag. 

Count the stars on the flag as it passes b}^ 
And then number the stars in yon distant sky— 
The number would be the brave hearts that would die 
For the stars on the flag. 

Count the stripes on the flag — we weave into one, 
The tears and the sighs for the lives that are done, 
But out of the shadows of each setting sun 
Shine the stars on the flag. 

Count the tears for the flag! Were they shed in vain? 
What now seemeth loss even yet will seem gain. 
For the nation's great heart will suffer no strain 
On the stars of the flag. 

Hats off to the flag! For its life breathe a prayer 
■"J^hat brave hearts and brave hands its love folds may bear. 
Till the siars in their courses, their glory shall share 
With the stars on the flag. 



Business Meeting. 



In the election of orricers Col. Henderson moved and put the question, 
calling for rising vote, that the present olticers be re-elected by acclama- 
tion. The v(!te was unanimous. 

Gen. Stibbs discussed the question of completing a regimental 
history. He said the matter had been under consideration for nearly 20 
years, and that Maj. D. W. Reed !iad finally compiled a very creditable 
work, but that it would cost about $1000 to issue an edition of 500 copies, 
and he appealed to the comrades to advance the sum required, to insure 
the publication of the work. As a result, Col. D. B. Henderson agreed to 
advaiicc $:I00 of the amount required, II. C. Curtis agreed to advance $200, 
E. B. Soper $100 and J. W. Gift $100. With these pledges covering over 
one-half the sum required, J. II. Stibbs and D. W. Reed agreed that they 
would, if necessary, advance the remaining $400, and that the book would 
be publLslicd as soon as practicable. 

This history will contain about 350 pages, showing fully what was 
done and accomplished by th3 regiment, from date of original muster in, 
until tinal discharge. In addition to this, it v/ill contain a complete 
roster of all the companies, together with two oflicial colored maps of the 
battlefield of Shiloh. Tlic book will be a valuable one, worthy a place in 
any library, and every survivor of i he regiment atid the families of the 
deceased should have a copy. 

It will be sent po.~it paid on receipt of price, two dollars, and we 
would suggest that any who are not already subscribers, write at once to 
?vlaj. D. W. Reed No. 2008 Sherman Ave., Evanston. 111. 

Tiie bo(ik will not be stereotyped, only five hundred copies are to be 
printed. 



38 EIGHTH REUNION 

A committee on resclutions was appointed: Capt. Soper, chairman; 
John Steen, Wahoo, Neb.; Maj. G. H. Morrisey, Washington, D. C. The 
resolutions presented and adopted were as follows: 

First. We tender to Ex-Governor Larrabee, the Clermont Soldiers' 
Monument Association and the citizens of Clermont our heartfelt thanks 
for this most happy reunion, and for the occasion that made it possible 
and for the honor conferred upon the most conspicuous and best known 
member of our organization. We appreciate the labor that was necessary 
to prepare for, and the trouble and inconvenience occassioned by, our 
presence in the homes, and city, and beg leave to assure them that this 
occasion in many ways so notable, will remain with us to our latest day, 
one of the happiest and most delightful experiences of our lives. 

Second. The Twelfth Iowa Regimental Association hereby unani- 
mously tenders its grateful thanks to Mrs. Gov. Larrabee for her affec- 
tionate and untiring efforts to make this meeting a success in every way 
and to provide for the comfort and pleasure of our members and the 
members of our families. 

We also tender our loving thanks to Mrs. Loomis fur her untiring 
efforts to add to our comfort. She is the sister of Capt. W. W. Warner, 
and has ever been a sister to all the membersof the Twelftli Iowa Infantry. 

Third. That the Twelfth Iowa Veteran W)lunteer Infantry As.so- 
ciation take great pleasure in unanimously tendering our iiearty thanks 
to Senator J. P. Dolliver for his very able and scholarly address, that by it 
our hearts have been made to rejoice and further that we are happy in 
the fact that we made no mistake in extending to him the invitation to 
be with us on this happy occasion. 

Fourth. That we tender to Miss Beulah Wright of the Department 
of Oratorical Expression, U. 1. U., a tribute of prai.se for the assistance 
she has contributed to help make this occasion so pleasant. I* or her read- 
ing at our dedicatory services of the D. B. Henderson statue. Her soul 
stirring eloquence tilled our hearts with admiration and for the time it 
seemed we were young again. 

Resolved: That a message be sent to Miss E. A. Sorin of Pasadena, 
Cal., "In token of her undying love and devotion to the membersof Co. C 
and the Twelfth Kegt. 

Resolved: That it is the sen.se of this association that the bill pend- 
ing in congress pensioning all soldiers and sailors who served for ninety 
days or more in the civil war at the rate of $12 per month and all widows 
of such soldiers and sailors who were married prior to June 30, 1890, 
should become a law and that our Senators and Representatives in Con- 
gress be requested to support the same and use their influence to secure 
its enactment. 

Resolved: — That the Twelfth Iowa Association accept with gratitude 
the dear old flag of Co. K, that was carried by the Twelfth Iowa Infantry 
at the battle of Corinth, Miss., Oct. 3 and 4, 1862, and presented to the 
association by the widow of a dear comrade, Charles E. Merriam, and the 
sympathy of the association is unanimously tendered to Mrs. Merriam on 
account of the great loss she sustained in the death of a noble husband. 

Resolved.- That the President and Secretary of the Association cause 
to be prepared a careful and authentic history of the flag of Co. K, carried 
by the regiment at Corinth and certify the same and transmit the same 
with the flag to the Governor of the State of Iowa with the request that 




w 

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pq 
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K 
Pi 

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> 

o 

o 



TWELFTH IOWA 39 

both be deposited with other battle flags of the Twelfth Iowa Infantry in 
the arcliives of the state. 

Resolved: That the proceedings of this reunion, with the names of 
all members of the Twelfth Iowa and also an account of dedicatory exer- 
cises of the Lincoln and Henderson statues be printed in pamplet form 
and distributed to all survivors and the President, Secretary and Major 
D. W. Reed be made a committee to prepare and publish the same. 

Abner Dunham, President. 
G. E. CoMSTOCK, Secretary. 

A telegram from Senator Allison, expressing his regrets at not being 
able to be with us, congratulating and wishing us a happy time on this 
occasion, received and read before the association. 

'<Montauk Home." 

A special invitaticm extended to all the 12th Iowa and their families, 
by Mr. and Mrs. Larrabee, to Luncheon on the lawn, at their "Montauk" 
home. 

This capped the climax, and another such a time as we did have 
on that hill will never be repeated by this generation (nor forgotten by 
those present). The day was perfect, the lawn was perfect, the company 
perfect, and from the way the luncheon disappeared, that must have been 
perfect too. Everybody was as happy as they ever will be in this world, 
singing songs, telling stories. The Fayette band was with us, and it was 
in a perfect mood, rendering most beautiful music, until finally the lunch- 
eon struck them, and they surrendered. "We'll all feel gay when Johnnie 
comes marching home". 

If any organization on earth was ever tendered an ovation, it was the 
Twelfth and their friends at that beautiful home on the hill, where Gov. 
Larrabee and his wife dwell. "May they never grow old and their shadows 
never grow less." When we add to this the personal presence of that 
Colonel, after his voluntary retirement from the second post of influence 
in the nation, the services of an orator like Senator Dolliver, the princely 
hospitality of the best Governor Iowa ever had, whose well directed muni- 
ficence alone, has made this great occasion possible, we, the boys of the 
Twelfth, doff our hats, make our best salute, extend our hands, and with 
the hand the heart, and surrender unconditionally, and quietly say, we 
never thought it would be so. Goodbye. 



40 EIGHTH REUNION 

Historical Vicksburg. 

To THE SUUVIVOUS OF THE ViCKSBURG CAMrAiox AND SiEGE: 

It was none other than General Ulysses S. (irant who, soon after the 
surrender at Appomatox, gave expression Uj the following sentiment: "If 
there is one event connected with the civil war that, more than another, 
is worthy of commemoration because of the importance of the event, and 
the valor and courage displayed by both armies, it is Uie campaign and 
siege of Vicksburg." 

That this event is to be commemorated by the construction of a Nat- 
ional Military Park at Vicksburg, in which the (.-Id forts and forli{icati(jns 
and the trenches and earth-works are to be resiored, is not only gratify- 
ing to the family of General Grant, but to thousands of surviving velcr- 
ans who followed the great General on that memorable campaign, and 
were participants with him in that awful siege. 

To the Iowa soldier there clusters about hisloric Vicksburg an inter- 
est not applicable, perliaps, to any other point of tlie civil war. This will 
be clearly understood when we recall the fact that the groat struggle of 
the Vicksburg campaign was particiijalcd in by no Ic.sitlian thirty-two 
organizalions from the Ilawkeye state, viz: Tiie 8d, 4ih, 5tli, (ith, 8th, 
9th, 10th, nth, 12th, 131.1), 15th, 16th; 17th, 10; li, 20i.li, 21st, 22d. 23d, 24th, 
2;)th, 2(;th, 28th, 30th, 31st, 34th. Soth, .38th and 4aih regiments of Infan- 
try; the .3d and 4th Cavalry, and the 1st and 2d l^attcries of Artillery. 

The surviving members of the above regiments, and their children 
and children's children, will be intens;?]y interested in the inf jrmition 
contained in this article; for it is not extravagant to say that every sol- 
dier in the Vicksburg campaign, and every member of his family, has a 
burning desire to vi;sit t!;ose liistoric battle grounds and the beautiful 
National Cemetery, containing the remains of nearly 17,000 of our heroic 
dead; and witness what the Government is doing for those who died, and 
to establish, at Vickslnng, a National Jlililary Park that shall lii.tingly 
commemorate, for all time to come, the bravery of every man wlio partici- 
pated in that grealos!. military achievement of the civil war. 

Four grand National Military Parks, each locat.ed upon the scene of 
one of the desperate conflicts of the Civil War, h;ive been auth.orized by 
the Congress of the United States— not in honor of victory or of defeat, 
but to commemorate a crucial epoch in the history of the Republic and 
the foritudc- and heroism of her srddiers on both sides. The last bill to 
this Gn(\ was approved by President McKinley, Febiaiary 21, 1899, and is 
entitled "An Act toestabiisha National Military Wivk to coinmemorate 
the campaign, siege, and dei'ense of Vicksburg." Following t;i:i en iciing 
clau.se the act says: "That, in order to commemorate the campaign, 
siege, and defense of Vicksburg, and to preserve the history of the battle 
and operations of the siege and defense on the ground where tiiey were 
fought and were carried on, the batttlelield of Vicksburg, in the State of 
Mississippi, is declared to be a National Military Park whenever the title 
to the same shall have been acquired by the United States," etc. Then 
follows a proximate description of the area to be acquired, provision for 
the appointment of three coinmi.ssioners to establish the Park under the 
direction of the Secretary of War, and some general directions for the work. 



fl. 

% 




\ U-^ 



rV/iOLl'TH IOWA 41 

The eamixiign that was .signalized by tlie eslablishinent of this Park 
was one of the most notable during the entire war, both as to details and 
results. Militar}' critics unite in declaring it the most brilliant operation 
initiated and cjn luted by (xjneral (xrant. As for General Pemberfcon, 
while he was clearly out-generaled in strategy, his army made a magniti- 
cent light, 

The capture of Vicksburg was the crowning and most impcntant event 
in the great struggle for the control of the Mississippi River which began 
at St. Louis in May, 18(51. With varying fortunes the Federal lines swept 
slowly southward past Cape Girardeau, Bird's Point, Kew Madrid and 
island iS'o. 10, until tlie capture of Memphis June (j, 18(32. New Orleans 
had fallen in April and all eyes were now turned to Vicksburg, with its 
double sweep of the great river along miles of high bluii's, as the scene of 
the next act in the drama. The 12th Mississippi regiment had been sent 
to Vicksburg in February. In March a few guns with ammunition were 
sent from Pensacoia, and early in April General Beauregard drew a pro- 
ject of lorti Ilea! ion requiring about 40 guns and a garrison of 3,000 men. 
The work was begun April 21, 18o2, by Captain D. B. Harris with a force 
of negro laborers. 

Upon the capture of New Orleans, General Martin L. Smith was dis- 
patched to \'lcksburg with rive regiments, under orders to complete the 
fortitication with the utmost dispatch. He arrived May 12, and by work- 
ing day and nigiit had six batteries finished and armed when the advance 
division of Farragut's lleet arrived. May 18. The lleet was accompanied 
by no land forces, and after giving Vicksburg its rirst baptism of fire in a 
desultory bombardment, returned to New Orleans about June 1. Here 
Farragut found tlie most urgent demand from the navy department that 
he should at once capture the up-river city, then the only point on the 
river remaining in Confederate control. July 22, reinforcements bringing 
the garrison to aloui 15,000 began arriving at Vicksburg, and, June 28, 
the city and its defenders were placed under command of General Van 
I>orn. June 25 Farragut again arrived at Vicksburg with his Heet, accom- 
panied by a mortar Hut ilia and by General Williams and his brigade ot 
about 3.000 men. Collecting a force of some 12,000 blacks, General Wil- 
liams began work on the celebrated canal across tlie peninsula, locating it 
upon the line as laid out several years before when the states of Louisiana 
and Mississippi were in dispute as to their boundaries and the former 
state determined to dig a canal which should cut Vicksburg off from the 
river. After passing the batteries and getting into position, Farragut 
bombarded the city pretty steadily for seven days, stating in his official 
report of the attack that "while the forts can be passed as often as re- 
quired, 1 am satisfied it is impossible to take Vicksburg without an army 
cif twelve to fifteen thousand men." The fleet, iiowever, remained in the 
vicinity until July 'Zl — the principal event of tliis period being tlie bril- 
liant dash into and through the Union vessels by the Confederate ram 
Arkansas, wliicii caused Farragut great cliagrin. 

\'icksburg now liad a period of respite, Grant's attempt late that fall 
to march south from his distant base at Mempliis being frustrated by the 
capture of the supplies at Holly Springs without his getting far enough 
to excite serious alarm. Then came Sherman's December attaclc on 
the Chickasaw Bluffs, where he was seriously worsted by General 



42 KKMI'llI i;i:i'Nl().N 

Stephen D. Lee. Two montlis of the succeeding winter and early 
spring Grant devoted to the "bayou expeditions," vainly trying every 
conceivable plan to find a way to cross the low land of the Yazoo delta 
and reach the high ground beyond the riglit Hank of the enemy, now 
commanded by General Pembert(<n. Then t'oUowed (irant's last and 
winning effort, which is brielly outlined in the "Record," c(»mpiled for 
the Park Commission by its secretary and historian. General J. S. Kountz. 
The Vicksburg campaign opened March 29, 18f)3, with (Jeneral (i rant's 
order for the advance of General Osterhaus' division from Milliken's r>end, 
and closed July i, 18G3, with the surrender of remberlon's army and the 
City of Vicksburg. Its course was determined by General (Jrant's plan of 
campaign. This plan contemplated the march of his active army from 
Millikin's Bend, La., to a point on the river below Vicksburg, the running 
of the batteries at \'icksburg by a sunicient number of gunboats and 
transports, and the transfer of his army to the Mississippi side. These 
points were successfully accomplished and, M:iy 1, the first battle of the 
campaign was fought near Port Gibson. Up to this time General (•; rant 
had contemplated the probability of uniting the army of General Banks 
to his. He then decided not to wait the arrival of Banks, but to make 
the campaign with his own army. INIay 12. at Hayinond, Logan's division 
of (irant's army with Crocker's division in reseive, w;is engaged with 
Gregg's brigade of Pemberton's army. Gregg was largely outnurnl-.ered 
and, after a stout tight, fell back to Jackson. The same day the left of 
Grant's army, under McClernand, skirmished at Fourteen Mile Creek 
with the cavalry and mounted infantry of Pemberton's army supported 
by Bowen's division and two brigades of Loring's division. After the 
battle of Raymond, Sherman's and McPherson's c(*rps of Grant's army 
moved toward Jackson. They reached that city May H, and occupied it 
after a brief and spirited engagement with the small force tliere under 
General Joseph E. Johnst(m, wiio reached that place the night of May 1.3. 
General Grant had now interp;>sed his army between the armies of Gen- 
eral Johnston and General Pemberton. lie left Sherman's corp one day 
at Jackson t(» complete the destruction of the stores and as much as pos- 
sible of the railroads there. McPherson's corps marched from Jackson, 
May 15, towards Vicksburg. May 10, McCiernand's and McPherson's 
corps of Grant's army engaged three divisicms of Pemberton's army at 
Champion's Hill. Pemberton's forces were driven from the Meld in S(mie 
confusion and with severe k>ss in killed, wounded prisoners and guns. 
Two divisions fell back towards Vicksburg. One division (Loring's) was 
cut oti from the others and did not fall back to Vicksburg, but marched 
to Crystal Springs and a little later united with Johnston's army at Jack- 
son. May 17, a part of Pemberton's army attempted to hold the works on 
the east side of Big Black river, but was driven from its intrenchments 
with considerable loss in prisoners and guns by the i;Uh corps of Grant's 
army. May 18, Pemberton's army took position in the defensive works 
arcund Vicksburg, Stevenson's division on right, Forney's in the center 
and M. L. Smith's on the left. Bowen's division and Waul's Texas Legion 
were held in reserve, but later Green's brigade of Bowen's division was 
placed in the line of defen.se. Late in the afternoon of the same day 
Grant's army began taking position in the line of investment. Sherman's 



TWIOLI'TH IOWv\ 4:*, 

corps on the liylu resiiiig- ils riyht on the Mississippi river above the city, 
McPherson's corps in the center and McClernand's corps on the left of 
McPiierson. May 24, Lauman's (fourth) division, sixteenth army corps, 
toolv position on the left of McCIernand, and June 15, the investment was 
completed by Herron's division from the Department of Missouri, takinu;- 
position on tiie left of Lauman and restinj^ its left on the Mississippi river 
below Vicksburg. May 19 and again May 22, assaults were made by Grant's 
army but were repulsed with severe loss to the assailants. From May 22 
to July 4, regular siege operations were carried on by Grant and opposed 
by Peraberton. During this time Admiral Porter's fleet rendered valuable 
assistance, and Grant was reinforced by three divisions of the sixteenth 
corps, two divisions of the ninth corps and Herron's division. With the 
exception of Lauman's and Herron's divisions, which took position in the 
line of investment as above noted, all these reinforcements and a part of 
the army with which he began the campaign were employed by Grant 
against the army of General Johnston. This last named army, with 
headquarters at Jackson, was assembled with the hope of raising the 
siege or assisting Pemberton to break through (Jrant's line. No 
force of Johnston's army crossed the Big Black river during the siege 
and defense. At tlie surrender, July 4, it was close to and on the east 
side of that river." 

Tills great struggle was participated in upon the Federal side by or- 
ganizations (regiments or parts of regiments and batteries) representing 
states as follows: Illinois— infantry 52, cavalry 10, artillery 15; total 77. 
Indiana—infantry 24, cavalry 2, artillery 2: total 28. Iowa— infantry 28, 
cavalry 2, artillery 2: total 32. (The Iowa regimentsengaged were: Infan- 
try, 3, 4, 5, 6, 8, 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 15, 16, 17, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24, 25, 26, 28, 30, 31, 
35, 38; cavalry 3, 4; artillery 1, 2. Kansas-infantry 1. Kentucky-infantry 
3, pioneers 1; total 4. Massachusetts— infantry 3. Michigan— infantry 7, 
artillery 2; total 9. Minnesota— infantry 3, artillery 1; total 4 Missouri — 
infantry 17, cavalry 3, artillery 7; total 27. New Hampshire— infantry 3. 
New York— infantry 3, artillery 1; total 4. Ohio— infantry 26, cavalry 1, 
artillery 11; total 38. Pennsylvania— infantry 4, artillery 1; total 5. 
Rhode Island — infantry 1; Regulars— infantry 2, artillery 1; total 3. West 
A'irginia — infantry 1. Wisconsin — infantry 13, cavalry 1, artillery 3; total 
17. (The Wisconsin commands were the 8th, 11th, I2th, 14th, 16th, 17th, 
18th, 20lh, 23rd 25th, 27th, 29th, and 33rd infantry regiments; the 2nd 
cavalry regiment: and the 1st, 6th and 12th batteries of light artillery. ) 

This makes an aggregate of 192 regiments or parts of regiments of 
infantry, 19 regiments of cavalry and 46 batteries of artillery — 257 organi- 
zations, not including eight regiments of negroes in process of enlistment. 
Tnis means that General Grant had approximately 45,000 rank and file 
when he began the campaign, 40,000 when the siege opened and 70,000 at 
its close— about two-iiftlis of whom were on the Big Black river line to 
oppose the threatened advance of General.!. E. Johnston. The casualties 
in his force, as summarized in the Official Records (Vol. 24, Part 2, p. 167), 
were 98 officers and 1416 enlisted men killed, 474 officers and 6921 enlisted 
men wounded, 10 officers and 443 enlisted men captured or missing — total 
9,362. About one-half of this loss was sustained in the battles preceding 
the siege and the remainder after Vicksburg was invested. The army 



TWKIJ-I'II IOWA 4o 

comrade of Mie Uraiid Army from DiibiKiue, Jowa, well known through- 
out tlic west and south as Assistant (Jeneral Passenger Agent of the 
Illinois Central railroad, that belongs the high honor of tinally taking 
the initiative in the matter, as well as of lending most valuable aid in 
carrying it to success. 

The Confederate line of defense in 1863, consisting of redoubts, redans 
and lunettes on the higher points, connected by curtains of trenches or 
rifle- pits, followed a high, rugged and almost unbroken ridge from the 
river belcnv, having an extension of eight miles. From this main ridge 
spurs set out frecjuently, separated the one from the other by, and ending 
abruptly in, deep and sharp ravines. No continuous ridge confronted tlie 
one occupied by the Confederate line, the investment line of the Union 
army was compelled to cross the steep ridges and deep ravines above 
described. The roughness and ruggedness of this area cannot be appre- 
ciated without iK'ingseen. This tended lo make the place impregnable 
against (} rant's assaults in 18(5.3. 

As the line or ridye held by the Confederates and assaulted and be- 
seiged by the Federals was the battle-ground, it will be readily under- 
stood tliat it is closely followed by the Park boundaries. These have 
been establisi)ed by tlie purchase for the United States of 1, 2.32 acres 
of land, including tlie entire Confederate line upon the one side and also, 
for three and one-half miles in the center, the main Federal line of in- 
vestment wit h all the ground between, 'fliis includes the points of great- 
est historical interest and importance, constitutes the main Park and is 
from one-thii'd to one-half a mile in width thnjughout. Sullicient land 
to iiu-lude the earthworks and to construct avenues behind them extends 
rn»m this main Park to the river above the city along both lines, known 
respectively as the North (Jonfederate and North Federal Wings. The 
South Confederate Wing is also continuous to the river below, but the 
Federal line will be sliown by a series of lo(tp roadways reaching the more 
important positions. 

The plans of the commissioners inchide the construction of a macad- 
amized Confederate avenue behind the Confederate works from river to 
river, of a Federal avenue from the east gate of the National Cemetery 
t(j Fort (Jarrott, the soutli end of the main Park, and of avenues along 
the loops which constitute the South Federal Wing— in all about twenty 
miles, not including the country roads, which radiate from the city 
through the Park like the spokes of a wheel, and which, witliin the Park 
limits, will be transferred to and improved by the government. When 
this shall have been dene, the works that frown upon each other from 
the opposing hills restored with their artillery in position, and the wliole 
beautified by memorial structures erected by tlie several states to the 
valor of their sons and illustrated by tablets showing the deployment of 
the armies and giving the history of each unit with its losses — when this 
shall have been accomplished, where can the American citizen, young or 
old, And so interesting or inspiring a scene or one better calculated to stir 
every pairiotle impulse? 



4« EIGHTH REUNION 



The Lincoln Monument. 

The Monument occupies the center of a pretty httle park, opposite 
the railroad depot and faces west. At the four corners are mounted 
massive pieces of ordnance relics of the Civil War secured throuj^h the 
efforts of Congressman Haugen of the Fourth District of Iowa. The 
figure of Lincoln bears the unmistakable features of the great man. It is 
truly Lincoln. In his right hand he bears the scroll, representing the 
"Emancipation Proclamation." 

On the four sides are beautiful bronze designs in bass-relief, viz: 

On west side. The "Surrender at Appomatox", "scene in the McLean 
House". Generals Grant and Lee in front, Sheridan on extreme right, 
Rawlins, Porter, Williams and Ord standing. Col. Marshall of Lee's staff, 
Col. Parker of Grant's s la flf. (See cut, "The Surrender"', in this book.) 

On tlie east side, "Battle of Shiloh". Old log church as it was at the 
time of the battle. Gen'l Sherman on liorseback. Color Bearer H. J. 
Grannis, with colors in front. Capt. W. W. Warner of Co. C, cheering on 
his men who have captured a piece of artillery. Surgeon C. C. Parker, 
attending wounded soldier. 

South side, "Soldiers Leaving Home". Soldiers marching, church 
spire in the distance, figure of Thomas Henderson (brother of Col. Hen- 
derson) of Co. C, the first soldier from Clermont township killed in battle, 
taking leave of wife and children. 

On north side, "Battle of Mobile". Admiral Farragut in the rigging 
of his flagship, Hartford. Other officers peering through the smoke. 
Admiral Dewey, then a Lieutenant on the extreme left in charge of "Jack- 
ies" working a gun. On base below is the inscription— "Erected in 1902 in 
Memory of the Soldiers and Sailors of the Civil War. 1861-1865." 




LINCOLN MONUMENT. 

P rected ;it < lei'iiioiit . In\v:i. in 15103 in moniocy of ihc soldiers nnd siiilois of I lie Civil 
\\ ,11-. I)V ;'X-li(>vei'iioi- \Villi:ini Lnfi'iibee. 




HENDERSON STATUE. 



TWELFTH IOWA 



Statue of Col. Henderson. 

The statue of Col. Henderson is wonderfully striking and is a master- 
piece of sculptor's art in every detail. The figure is of heroic size, seven 
feet, six inches high. The sculptor caught the Colonel's best and strong- 
est expression. He is represented as about to call to order the House of 
Representatives, over which he presided for four years, with a gavel in' 
his left hand. Under his left arm he supports a crutch. In this way 
both the military and civil life of Col. Henderson is perpetuated in bronze. 
The gavel stands for Hon. D. B. Henderson, the statesman, and the crutch 
for Col. Henderson, the soldier. The whole monument is very striking and 
the friends of Col. Henderson as well as those who look upon his statue 
as a work of art, are both pleased. 

The following inscription is on the pedestal of the Henderson statue: 

l>avid B. Henderson 

Speaker of 

the House of Representatives 

of the United States, 1899-1903. 

Lieutenant of Company C, Twelfth 
Regiment, Iowa Infantry 
Volunteers, 1861. 

Colonel of the Forty-Sixth 

Regiment Iowa Infantry 

Volunteers 1864. 

Member of Congress of the 

United States from the Third 

District of Iowa, 1883-1903. 



48 EIGHTH KEJ/NION 



Columbia's 51^9- 



By a (£omrabe on 
'%i}( Hen? 3ronsi5cs" in ZUobile Ban, \86^. 



Of all the flags that proudly float o'er 

Neptune's gallant tars, 
Or waves on high in victory, above the 

Sons of Mars, 
Give us that flag — Columbia's flag —pure 

Emblem of the free, 
Whose brilliant stars flashed through our 

Wars for truth and liberty. 

Beneath its folds we fear no foe— ^our 

Hearts shall never quail. 
With losoms bare the storms we dare and 

Brave the battle's hail. 
E'en when our decks of boats were ploughed, 

And their planks with gore dyed red. 
Our gallant tars, firm at their guns, ne'er 

Paused to count their dead. 

Far o'er the sea to every clime this 

Honored flag shall go, 
And through all time its fame sublime 

With brighter hues shall glow: 
For freedom's own that flag is now — 

Its guardians, freedom's sons. 

Its enemies dispersed shall be 

Upon the land and main. 
It's stars so bright 'mid storm and night 

Shall never shine in vain; 
No foreign power nor treason rife 

Shall shake our courage keen, 
We'll give our life to hold that flag — supreme. 

Not honor we seek, nor life's shallow fame, 
Nor glory, nor hope of renown; 

We'll battle for God, and our 
Country's fair name. 

And the flag that will never come down. 



TWELFTH IOWA 40 



Regrets and Reminiscences. 

Dubuque, Iowa., June 18, 1903. 
Mr. Geo, E. Comstock, Sec. 

Dear Comrade:— Your kind invitation to attend the reunion of the 
gallant old Twelfth was received several days ago; but I did not answer, 
hoping that I would be able to attend. I promised Col. Henderson this 
naurning that, if possible, I would attend; but now I find at the last 
moment that I cannot get away. The strike which has prevailed here 
for six weeks has kept newspaper men on the jump. No one can possibly 
regret this more than I. I had hoped to be present and once more shake 
the hands and look into the eyes of my old comrades, with whom I went 
out in the long ago, to tight for the best country and the best flag in the 
world. 

I had also looked forward with pleasure to a gathering where I should 
see four of Iowa's distinguished sons and statesmen— Allison, Henderson, 
Larrabee and Dolliver — men who have won honor and fame for their state 
and for themselves, and who have never been found wanting in sympathy 
when the interests of the men who preserved a nation are at stake. 

It is eminently fitting that a monument to the Immortal Emanci- 
pator should be erected at Clermont, for in no other section of this grand 
state did he have more royal supporters during the dark days of the war 
than in Clermont. Gov. Larrabee was one of them. He fed the soldier's 
widow and the soldier's orphan, and in other ways gave of his substance 
for their support. 

It is eminently fitting also that a statue should be erected to Col. 
Henderson, for whom the heart of every old soldier of the 12th will ever 
remain as steadfast and true as is his friendship for them. It was from 
Fayette county that three farmer boys went down to the Southland and 
fought on fields of blood and death, where one of them found a brave and 
honored soldier's grave. Another, wrecked physically because of the 
hardships he endured, is now sleeping in the bosom of the land he fought 
to save, and the third is with you today, with shattered limb, but whose 
hearb is whole and strong and as full of the patriotic fire of the day, when 
with his two brothers, he knelt at his mother's knee, to receive her 
blessing before departing for the field of battle. I trust that the reunion 
may be the grand success we all wish it to be and that joy and good fel- 
lowship may reign supreme. 

The shadows of the long night of silence are fast enveloping all of us. 
Only a short time and we shall all have passed from the scenes of life. 
Our monument will be a preserved and mighty nation — the greatest of 
all nations— and we will beqeath it to a nation of intelligent, liberty- 
Icving freemen. 

Yours in F. (1 and L. 

M. D. Nagle, 
Co. I, 12th Iowa V. I. 



50 EIGHTH REUNION 

PouTLAND, Que., Juxk 15, 1903. 
G. E, CoMSTOCK, Skc. 

Deak Comrade:— My heart was made to thrill with ^I'ltlness, when 
my good friend Dr. James Barr of this city informed me, that a reunion 
of the 12th Iowa Inft. would soon be held, and that a few lines from me 
for the noted occasion were earnestly solicited. Comrades, I assure you 
it is a gratifying privilege, which brings me at this remote time into 
touch with the memorable 12th Iowa, the regiment of my boyhood days, 
when we all went to war in '61. It may be I am unknown to you, as I 
was early in the war striken down by disease and discharged by reason of 
Surgeons Certificate of Disability, March 1.3, 18G2. Though my exper- 
ience as a soldier was cut short, yet a long and painful illness which fol- 
lowed, worked in me a soldier's fellowship and kindred feeling, so real 
that I feel I am one of you, as much so, as though I had fought on with 
you to the end of the war. I do not know tliat my love for you could be 
deeper, for I am in soul, mind and spirit wiLh you and for you. There 
has been during the coming and passing of the years, a lingering and 
living memory of the 12th in my heart and affections, and it would be a 
happy event to me to attend the reunion and take my comrades by tlie 
hand, and enjoy the exercises of the excellent program which I have 
before me. But I must not take too much time in expressing my warm 
regard for you all, which is a holy exhibition of my soul. I was one of 
live brothers who responded to the calls of President Lincoln. Three of 
the brothers were at one time in the famous 2nd Iowa Cavalry, v/hich 
lowans remember with pride. I am the only male survivor of my family, 
which with your families, and the many thousands of others stood for the 
Union and "Old Glory" during the dark days of the rebellion. We have 
witli our people in all the (coming) years since the war entered into the 
war-fruits, that have come from the sacrifices made by our dead, and by 
our living comrades. It is a legacy enriched by the heriosm and lives of 
our comrades that has made our Nation in growth and glory to be what 
it is today. Who is more elated to see this day, or can be, than the old 
soldiers of the Union Army? Who knows more, by what sacrilices and 
heroic efforts, our national greatness, prosperity and peace has come, 
than the ones who made personal denial, and gave up all for native 
country, to save the union and to hold the flag? Surely, Comrades we 
know, not in part, but fully. And who should share bountifully of the 
governments benefits, and of the peoples' gratitude more than the old 
soldiers of 61 to 5? We have perhaps little cause for complaint but much 
to rejoice over, and be thankful for. 

May God keep you true in Fraternity, Charity and Loyalty. Xo 
grander principles could be spoken and lived. In conclusion: You may 
desire to know my home and age when I enlisted. My home was Hopkin- 
ton, Del. Co., and age 18, and Co. K my company. 
I am very respectfully your Comrade, 

271 College St. Henuy A Barden. 



TWELFTH IOWA 51 

Memphis, Tenn., June 13, 1903. 

G. E CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

My Dear Comrade:— It is a source of profound regret to me that I 
shall be unable to join my comrades at the Reunion at Clermont, Iowa, 
June 19th, 1903, on the occasion of the dedication of the statue to Col. 
I). B. Henderson and the Lincoln monument. I should be pleased to 
join my comrades in their celebration, but the imperative demands of 
business require my presence here. 

Hoping to be kindly remembered to Col. Henderson and my other 
comrades of the r2th Iowa Infantry and especially to the surviving 
members of Company A, who were with me in the "Hornet's Nest" at 
Shiloh, and previously in the assault upon the enemy's right at Fort 
Donelson, where the gallant Col. Henderson, then a lieutenant, was 
slightly wounded only a few feet from me in that terriffic shower of grape 
and shrapnel which came down upon us from the fortitications, I am 

Your Truly, 

T. B. Edgington, 
Co. A. 



Niagara Falls, N. Y. June 15, 1903. 
G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

De\k Comrade:— I am in receipt of your favor of the 15th ult., invit- 
ing me to join in the Reunion of the Twelfth Iowa Veteran Volunteer 
Infantry to be held at Clermont on tiie 19th of the present month. More 
than I can express, I regret my inability to be present. My 6ti years, 
distance and imperative duties forbid. 

To me, who lived for years in Fayette County, and enlisted from 
there, even the name of the county is a sweet and pleasant memory. It 
was there that I early learned to vote the Republican ticket and curse 
the Democrats for short crops and rainy harvests. It was there 
that I piously voted each year in the County Convention and at the 
polls for Joe Hobson for County Clerk. It was there that I did 
myself and my locality great honor by casting in a Nominating Con- 
vention the vote of Jefferson Township for that prince among men, that 
real statesman, that genuine patriot, William Larrabee. It was, I 
believe, the Mrst state office he ever held. It was there, too, that I once 
bought a pair of stogy boots for four dollars and fifty cents, and paid for 
them in corn at eight cents per bushel. However, that incident isn't in 
any way connected with the sweet and pleasant memory referred to above. 

But none of that has anything to do with the Immortal Twelfth. In 
your program 1 note names that are dear me. I remember one whose 
name appears there, R. W. Tirrill, who with a bullet hole through him 
needed and got the little help I could give him on the battle field of 
Shilohi and another, Abner Dunham, who with others, a select few, 
brothers all, when I was sick unto death, stood over and nursed me and 
bore with me as only a best man in the world could. And there, too, is 
D. B, Henderson. How fast he grew, how high he clim,bed,| and still 
stands. And Jack Stibbs! Do we not all remember the snap and the 
percussion he used to put into his Company drills? I knew to a certainty 
that Company F, the one I belonged to, was the best Company in Grant's 



52 EIGHTH REUNiON 

Army, but I always thought tluit if there was no Company F I would 
like to to be with Jack Stibbs. 

But we can not particularize short of calling the roll. The Twelfth 
Iowa was always a good, a hardy and a thrifty sort. You never heard, 
did you, of a Twelfth man catching cold from sleeping in a room with a 
damp tumbler? You can't recall, can you. that ever one of those fellows 
let his chum or his chum's chum go hungry when there was a chicken in 
easy reach? You remember, don't you, when that ill-advised order 
against foraging was read to us at Smithland on the Cumberland? And 
you remember how we all stood up and took a vow that, order or no order, 
if any cow, sheep, chicken, goose, lamb, duck or other ferocious animal 
should bite a member of the Twelfth Iowa, it should surely die. And 
yon remember how faithfully we kept that vow. I don't believe that you 
can recall a case when any edible animal was allowed to escape that vow 
on a technicality, or for want of evidence. 

But stern and hardy and patriotic men they were, and only because 
they and their kind were so, have we now the privilege of belonging to a 
united country, and the most powerful nation that the glad sun of heaven 
in all its daily course shines upon. 

I can not help wondering how many of the one thousand and ten men 
commanded by Col. Wood that broke camp at Eagle Point and crossed 
the icy river for the south on that cold November day are now alive; how 
many will be present to partake of the welcome and the hospitality of 
Wm. Larrabee, his excellent wife and their good friends and neighbors of 
Clermont. Few, very few, for they wasted rapidly away, and are still 
going in constant procession to join the great majority. In 18 months 
from the crossing of the river, we had buried our members in the soil of 
Missouri, Kentucky, Tennessee, Mississlpi, Alabama, Georgia and Mary- 
land, and numbers had also gone home to Iowa, the sick and the wounded, 
only to lay down and die. And constantly they have been going ever 
since, and the end of the processioe is only a little way back. 

The War of the Kebellion was the most expensive, in human lives 
and treasure, of any war of modern times, but its results were unique in 
the history of wars, for it not only gave strength and stability to the 
greatest of nations, but it freed 3,000,000 slaves, freed their masters and 
conferred the blessings and beneficence of victory alike upon the victors 
and the vanquished. 

Not many of us can leave much of this world's goods to our posterity, 
but each of us will leave not only to his own children but to all the chil- 
dren of the nation, even to all the coming generations of the world, a 
share of blessings, richer as a heritage, in all that goes to make for peace, 
security and prosperity, than all the accumulations of material that have 
been inherited. 

Comrades of the Twelfth Iowa Volunteer Infantry, 
Hail and Farewell. 

B. C. Eldhibge, 

Sargeant Co. F. 



TWELiTH IOWA 53 

Pomona, Mo., Junk 10, 190.1. 

Dkak Comuades:— Nothiiij^ would please me better than to be with 
you on this occasion, but under the circumstances I cannot. Owingr to 
the grate distance my physical strength will not permit. I am not able 
to stand tlie worry of the trip. 

Thanks to Ex-(k)vornor Larrabee, lor conferring on our regiment the 
honor of dedicating the Henderson statue. My good wishes are with you 
at this reunion. My eyes grow dim when I think tliat it will be impos- 
sible for me to be with you on this occasion. I would like to be there and 
hear three cheers for Robert Light, the man in Co. H, who cut the burn- 
ing fuse off the shell that the "Johnnies" had thrown in our camp, while 
we were at the Spanish Fort in Mobile Bay, Ala. Bob was too fast for 
the fuse. He cut it olf witli his knife, and tlirew tlie shell in tlie water. 
I suggest three clieers for tlie hero of the brave deed. He risked his life 
to save that of others. 

Tlianks to Mr. and Mrs. Larrabee and citizens of Clermont for their 
kind invitation to entertain the 12th at their reunion. 

Wishing you all success in life and a pleasant time at this reunion, 
and may you live to meet together for many years yet to come, I am 
yours very truly, David Bkyan. 

Howell Co. Co. H. 



Ckab Orciiaud, Tenn., June 1, 1903. 
G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

Dear Comrade:— I received your letter stating that there would be 
a reunion of the 12th Iowa at Clermont, June 19 and 20. I am glad to 
hear that the old boys are to meet once more but I feel sad to think I can 
not be with them. 1 am so far away, my age and my physical condition, 
as well as financial, will not permit me. I am not able to do much. You 
know that time is telling on some of us old boys I want you to go and 
meet the boys and shake hands with them for me and tell them I often 
think of them and that I can see them as they loooked in line of battle 
at Shiloh; how we looked and felt when we liad to surrender, as prisoners 
of war; and how we suffered that night out in that cornMeld, witli rain 
coming down on us, and how my leg pained me the next morning, with a 
bullet hole through it. I can feel a queer feeling in that leg every time 
I think of that day, the 7th of April, 1862; but it will not be long before 
our names will all be called, for the Angel is calling the roll now, I'm 
listening to hear my name. He has called my dear wife that I left be- 
hind me when I enlisted. Just before she passed away she said tome, 
"Oh it Wont be long until you will come, and I shall be looking for you." 

Are you ready comrades? Are you every whit made whole? May we 
all enter the blessed mansions when the Angel calls the roll. May tlie 
good Lord be with you all is my prayer, God bless you all. 

Jas. W, Tarpenning, 

Cumberland Co. Co. D, 12th and Co. C, 47th. 



' Jersey City, June 14, 1903. 

Dear Comrades:— It is with sincere regret that I cannot be with 

you at your reunion, but I will be with you in spirit if not in person. I 



54 EIGHTH REUNION 

am living in New Jersey, the land of Mosquitoes. I am always glad to 
hear from any of the old boys of the 12Lh, though it lias been many years 
since I have seen any of you, yet I can never forget you, and would wel- 
come you with wide open arms, should any of you ever come within hail- 
ing distance. So lean only send you my sincere regards and hope you 
will have a good time. Your old Comrade, 

AUGUSTUS W. Hatfield. 
Co. 1. 



CiiKTEK, Wis., Junk 5, 190.3. 
G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

Dear Comrade:— Received yours May 15, with your kind invitation. 
I would so gladly be with you, but it is iinp(»ssible. My health is so 
poorly I could not stand the trip and my hearing is very bad, 1 can 
scarcely hear any thing, at times I am totally deaf. In a few months I 
will be 79 years old. It is with the deepest regret that I can not be with 
you. I hope you will have a good time. Remember me to all the old boys. 
Yours Truly, 

John J. Wyatt, Co. D. 



San Antonio, Texas. June 10, 1903. 
Dear Comrades; — Happy greeting to one and all. 1 can not be with 
you at your happy gathering, only in spirit. To once more grasp the 
hand of comrades who marched side by side with me, in tliose dark days 
of '61 to '5, in defense of the flag, would do my soul good, and till a place 
in my heart, that nothing else can. Hoping you will have a grand good 
time, I am Truly Yours, Alvin Mosher, Co. K. 



New Era, Oregon, Clackamas Co., June 7, 1903. 

Dear Comrades:- -I have just received an invitation to meet with 
you in reunion at Clermont. It will be impossible, but my love and best 
wishes I send herewith. Oh how I would like to clasp tiie old comrades 
by their hands once more and have a jolly old visit: ni)thing on earth 
would please me better. 

I am so far away that I cannot attend. In this respect I have been 
unfortunate, missing so many reunions. So many of my own company I 
have not seen since discharge in '66. There is only one of (Jo. C here. Dr. 
Jas. Barr. I met him at reunion at Astoria, Wash. The state will hold 
one this year at Portland. We have a good time but nothing to be com- 
pared with the old Twelfth. 

I like the country here very much. My health is not very gcM)d. I 
live six miles from city, sixteen miles from Portland. I can stand in my 
yard and see Mt. Hood, covered with snow the year round, about sixty 
miles away. My wife joins me in anticipation of the great time you will 
have. We send our kindest regards. "God be with you till we meet 
again." Yours, 

Jason L. Mattocks, Co. C. 



TWELFTH IOWA 55 

FuANKLiN, Neb., June 12, 1903, 
G. F. CoMSTOCK, Secy. 

Deau Comrade: — Yours of the 12th Inst., informing me of the reun- 
ion of our old regiment on the 19th and 20th Inst, is received. I will not 
be able to be present. I know that it would be a great pleasure and sat- 
isfaction to meet you all once more, and I hope to do so at some future 
time if my life is spared, 

I am proud of tlie 12th Iowa and glad that I belonged to it and proud 
of the great state that sent it to the Held and committed in some manner 
its honor to our keeping, during those dark days and years. 

Gen'l Tuttle said to us at Shiloh, Sunday morning, "Boys remember 
that you are from Iowa". Tliose words meant a great deal. I have been 
a citizen of another state for over twenty-one years, but on occasions like 
this my heart, as it were, returns to its lirst love. This letter is to 
convey through you my kindly greeting to tlie bo}'s of the old regiment, 
with the hope that the reunion will be a success in every way, that all 
may enjoy themselves as old soldiers only can, and that they may return 
home in health and safety and that tliere may be another reunion. 

Your Comrade, 

J AS. L. Thompson, Co. 1. 



Napann, Neb., June 16, 190.3. 
Geo. E. Comstcck, Sec. 

Deau Comrade:— Rec'd reunion program, and sorry that circum- 
sl antes are such that it will be impossible for me to meet with you. 
Other\\ise I would pack my knapsack, draw on the commissary and take 
up my line of march for Clermont. I would enjoy grasping the old boys 
by the hand. By the way, we are getting to be pretty old boys, speaking 
for myself. My hair is getting pretty light, both in color and quantity. 
My wife calls it gray, but you will remember it always inclined toward a 
beautiful blonde. If Co. I should be represented please say to them that 
I would be pleased to hear from them, or for that matter any member of 
the old 12th. What has become of our regimental history? The delay is 
liable to deprive many of us the pleasure of reading it. 

•'Old Glory" was very much in evidence here Monday, Flag Day. 
The ladies made it the occasion of presenting the old soldiers with as 
beautiful a silk flag as it has ever been my pleasure to look upon. Poss- 
ibly it is from force of habit, or it may be to humor us in our dotage, but 
the ladies, God bless them, continue to shower their sweetest smiles on 
us old boys. ( May their shadows never grow less. ) I send regards to all. 
Hoping that you may have a pleasant reunion, I remain your comrade, 

John S. Ray, Co. I. 



St. Louis, June 8, '03. 
Mr. G. E. Comstock. 

Dear Sir:— I received your favor of 15th Inst., advising me of the 
reunion of the 12th Iowa at Clermont. It will be an impossibility for me 
to meet 5'ou. I am not well enough to be out. I have been a semi- 
invalid for the past nine years. It would be a great treat and do me 
more good than medicine. 



56 EIGHTH UEUNION 

Iluwevor, 1 would like to hear of Joe Linker, wlio was a Iransler, also 
tlie following:: John Grain, Giles Hall (Hall was a transfer from Co. G 27t.h 
Iowa Infantry, July 15, 18(j.>) Henry Stein, and in fact all of Co. G, who's 
names I cannot remember. Wishing you all many reunions and advanced 
old age, 1 am ever your well wisher and comrade. 

V. \V. MONTGOMKUV, Co. G. 

4359 Cozens Ave. 



SoLDiEus' Home, Maushalltown, Junk 1-1, 1903. 
Dear Comrades of the 12th, in Reunion Assembled:— I am very sorry 
I cannot be with you, but I am glad so many of you can attend. I shall 
miss that warm, friendly greeting, shaking hands, talking over the past, 
present and future. Victories of the past have perched upcm our banner. 
As a result you dedicate at this reunion a statue to the memory of our 
First Lieut. D. B. Henderson, and a nobler young man never wore the 
straps than he. I would so like to be witli you (m this occasion. Please 
extend to Mr. and Mrs. Larrabee my sincere regards lor the part they 
have taken in honor of our beloved comrade, stat estnan and friend. Three 
cheers for the flag, Henderson and Larrabee. 

Sincerely Yours. 

A. H. Barton, Co. C. 



CiIATTANOOG.\, TeNN. 

G. E. COMSTOCK, Sec. 

Dear Comrade:— I regret that I cannot go to the reunion at Cler- 
mont. But I would be glad to be counted in the roll of thanks to Mr. 
and Mrs. Larrabee, for the splendid testimonial they are giving to the 
memory of a splendid Towa soldier, and Iowa citizen. 

To any of the boys who remember me, I would be glad to be remem- 
bered. I am now a pretty full fledged Tennessean, having been here 
nearly 30 years, during which time I have published a sound Ivepubllcan 
newspaper, been a member of the State Senate twice, on the elec- 
torial ticket three times, Commander of my home post eight times, Senior 
Vice Commander Dept. of Tenn. G. A. R. twice, a delegate to the 
National Encampment two or three times, and am now teacliing the 
gospel of McKinley and Roosevelt as editor of the only Republican news- 
paper in Chattanooga. So you see as an Iowa Soldier I have not let the 
banner of our dear old state trail in the dust. Fraternally Yours, 

W. F. McCarron, Co. I. 



Mt. Pleasant, Tenn., Junk 10, 1903. 
G. E. CoMSToCK, Sec. 

Dear Sru:— Your letter of the 15th received and will say in reply, that 
I would like very much to be present once more with the boysof the 12th. 
But my health will not permit me to make the trip. Remember me 
kindly to all of my old comrades, please write me, or send me an outline 
of the business done and what kind of a time the dear old bojsof (he 
12th had. Very Truly Yours, 

R. F. D. No. 1. AViNCIIKSTKR AVoOLEV. Co. I. 



TWELFTH IOWA 57 

Gila Bend, Ariz., May 28, 1903. 
Mu. G. E. CoMSTOCK, Fayette, Iowa. 

Esteemed Comrade:— I am in receipt of your favor of the 15th, with 
enclosed program of the dear old 12th Iowa reunion at Clermont, Iowa. 

To say that I regret very much not to be able to attend is to put it 
mildly. For when I read the names of Henderson, Stibbs, Dunham, 
Terrill and such, whose letters have been so great a help and solace to 
many of us in later years, some of which I have and treasure with the 
same jealous care as were the bean-pot and coffee-can of dear old com- 
pany F at Donaldson or Shiloh. I long to be with you. I have the 
pleasure of meeting Captains Gift and Hale frequently, and in this way 
get a real taste of a love-feast; but to be able to meet you all would in- 
deed be a feast of love which is to my great sorrow denied me. 

With best wishes for a happy and successful reunion and until taps 
sound 1 am fraternally and sincerely yours, 

LuTHEU Kaltenbach, Co, F. 



Denveu, Colo., June 14, 1903. 
G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

My Dear Comrade:--! have your very kind invitation to the reunion 
before me, and after reading the program for the dozenth time and each 
time "slopping over," I am seated to write a letter that is in my mind. 
I can't be with you. How much I regret It you can never know. I rea- 
lize that time is passing rapidly and in all probability many will attend 
tliis reunion for the last time, and the chance to look into your eyes and 
clasp your hands as memory travels backward to the days of "Auld Lang 
Syne" will more than likely never come to me again. My heart is in the 
right place and is doing business right now the same as ever when I 
think of the old 12th. Have a good time, boys; God knows you deserve 
it; and on the 19th and 20th I will play the reveille with my face toward 
Iowa. Now with a handshake for all, a hug for yourself and a kiss for 
Col. Stibbs, I bid you Godspeed. 

Your old fife major, S. M. Fkench. 
3205 West 2()th ave. Co. F. 



Rea, Mich., June 6, 1903. 
G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec, 

Dear Comrade:— Through you I wish to send greetings and a "God 
bless you" to the "boys of the Tv.elftli Iowa." 

Distance and ill health will not permit what I so earnestly 
wish, that of meeting with you. 

The letter announcing this reunion took me back to those dark days 
of '61 and '62, whose hardships are nearly forgotten by the lapse of 
years, but whose friendships and victories will never be forgotten. 

I prize today as my dearest treasure the old drum that went with 
me through the service, and would enjoy beating it for Co. C to fall in 
line (those who are left ). 

Thanking you for remembering and sending me this announcement, 
From Comrade Sumnek Haktshokn, (Jo. C. 
Per daughter Mab.'l. 



58 EIGHTH KEUMU.N 

CuEKOKKK, Io\v;i, June 15, 190.'?. 
G. E. COMSTOCK, Skc. 

Dear Comrade:— Your kind invitation to meet with the members of 
the old 12tli Iowa V. \'. Inft. tar a reunion at Clermont, la., on the lUih 
is received, and "Harkis is wlllin'," yesi more tlian willing, delighted at 
the prospect. The arrangement is an excellent one. Tliere is no (lues- 
tion about the success of the meeting, as it might rain pitchforks and 
the boys would be tliere. Owing to poor health my wile will not be able 
to be there; but my brother Howard and brother-in-law Irank Thomiis 
will be with me. They are not Vets, but they are going to take in the 
circus and visit at Postville. 

As I write the thought comes to me, of how great Uncle Wm. L. 
Henderson's enjoyment, could he have been with us to attend this reun- 
ion. He would have done his full share to make the day one long to be 
remembered. Well! The boys are dropping away fast at Death's "lights 
out." The end of these reunions is very near now, but I believe that no 
one of the little fragment that is left of the grand old regiment ever 
regrets for one moment the sacriMces made, the pain endured, the toil of 
the weary marchings, the longing for home with iis love and com- 
forts. These were cheerfully endured that the principles of equality 
before the law, liberty, and government by the people, might be pre- 
served and handed down to their children, and the union of the states 
as a nation be crystallized into a perpetuity. Clermont is a small place, 
but around it and the old home near by cluster many of the pleasant 
recollecti(tns of my life. Neither Clermont nor I'ayette county need ever 
blush for their part in helping to make the history of the Nation. Every 
hamlet in the North had its William VV^arner; but no one of them ail 
was purer, braver, nobler than our gallant Warner, who though dead 
these many years, yet lives enshrined amid a halo of proud and tender 
memories in our every heart. And coupled with the thoughts of the 
brave comrades who went forth to do and dare for the cause of right, 
and who came not home vviih us again, we must not forget the not less 
gallant few who wuuld but could not go, but who with unceasing 
thoughtfulness and noble generosity cared for the loved ones left behind, 
and in tliis way and by act and word at all times and places where 
needed, encouraged and held up the hands of the men at the front As 
1 write this to you, old comrade, the first thought in your mind, as in 
mine, is William Larrabee. 

There be heroes who die in war, 

And whose names we speak with pride. 

As we think of their brave deeds done: 
But other heroes there are 
Who may rank with them side by side. 

Though they never fired a gun. 

And William Larrabee, of Clermont, to those who understand how he 
longed to go, but could not be accepted, and of his tireless energy and 
generosity in doing all that a man could do, both to encourage and help 
the boys at the front and their dear ones left behind, it will not be 
necessary to say that he and men like him, ought always to be remem- 
bered and revered side by side with those w ho marched to bugle note or 
tap of drum. Our grateful hearts ought to impel all of us to do honor 



TWELFTH IOWA 59 

on llie 19lh of Juno to our beloved and generous host of that day. And 
while on that day many words will be spoken in the endeavor to kindle 
and keep burning the fires of patriotism in the hearts of the genera- 
tion who are to follow us when we pass into the dark valley, and gray- 
haired fathers and mothers of the boys of '61 to 65, who will be there, 
must not be forgotten among the glad greetings. Theirs was the great- 
er sacriiice, theirs the harder part to play. Harder than our weary 
marching which was made easier by thoughts of the cause we did it for, 
was the wearier waiting of fathers and mothers for news of the absent 
boy. Harder to bear than the cravings of hunger in camp and field, 
was the gnawing fear vvnich ate out the heart of the doting mother and 
the tender wife and sweetheart. The feverish exhileration of the frenzy 
of battle was an antidote against all fear of harm, amid the roar of can- 
non and the scream of the deadly shell; but what antidote had the 
loving ones at home for the fear that was eating their hearts away, 
while they waited for tlie smoke of battle to lift, and its echoes to die 
away, that they might learn what they yet dreaded to know, the fate 
of the dearest on earth to them? 

All honor must be given on June 19th, in thought and speech, to the 
gray-haired fathers, mothers and widows of our comrades living and 
dead, who will gather with us there. It must be borne home to them in 
kindly words that sharing as they did so deeply with us the self-sacrifices 
of those old times, we cheerfully accord to them an equal share in all 
the achievements of those fateful years, in which we today take pride. 

There is a possibility that I may not be able to be with you on the 
19th, and if such be the case, friend Comstock. you are at liberty to read 
such portions of this letter as you may see fit. 

Hoping to be with you, I remain 

Your comrade, J. A. Hkndkuson, 

Transfer from 27th Iowa to Co. C. 12th Iowa. 



Peouia, III., June 13, 1903. 
Mk. G. E. Comstock, Fayette, Iowa. 

Dkak Cojikade:— I have yours of May 15th. Nothing would please 
me more than to be with you at Clermont on the 19th inst., but it 
will be impossible for nie to be there. I desire to be remembered to all 
comrades. If General Stibbs is with you he can tell you something 
about me, as he spent a year or more in our city and we often lived 
over the old war days. 

Sincerely yours. 

J. W. Gift, Co. F. 

HianMOHE, S. D , June 15, 1903. 
G. E. Comstock, Sec. 

Dear Ct)mrade:— It is with sorrow and regret that I cannot meet 
with the comrades. I have been chosen delegate to our state encamp- 
ment and they come almost the same time. I hope you will have a good 
time. If spared, will try and answer roll call next time. Hoping to 
hear from you soon after the close of the reunion, I slill remain 

Your comrade, 

Hamilton Cuameu. Co. A. 



60 EIGHTH REUNION 

Dep't of the Intkuiou, U. S. Pension Agency, 

Des Moines, Iowa, May 29, 1903. 

Mr.. G. E. Comstock, 

Sec. 12th Iowa Reunion Association, 
Fayette, Iowa. 

My Dkak Com uade.-— Your favor, dated May 15, but postmarked 
May 28, arrired this morning. I will not be present at the regimental 
reunion next month. My hearing has become so deficient that I cannot 
hear the proceedings, therefore it would only be torture to myself to be 
present. Besides, while the regimental reunion is in session the whole 
force of this pension agency will be preparing for the July payment of 
pensions, in which the 12th Iowa comrades are nearly all interested. 
Every comrade hopes to receive his pension check by return mail, but all 
of them should remember that this agency pays 55,000 pensioners, and 
that they cannot all be paid at once. About twelve days are required to 
pay that number of pensioners. 

I hope that the regimental reunion will pass a resolution endorsing 
the bill introduced by ITemenway of Indiana last February, which pro- 
vides for the pensioning of all soldiers and sailors who served at least 
ninety days in the Civil war, at the rate of $12 per month; and all 
widows of such soldiers and sailors who were married prior to June 
27, 1900. I have letters from Speaker Henderson and Congre.ssman 
Hull stating that they are in favor of the Hemenway bill, and I think 
that it can be safely said that the entire Iowa congressional delegation 
will vote for it, and work for its enactment. The laws now provide for 
the pensioning of all Mexican war soldiers who served sixty days and are 
62 years of age, or are disabled and dependent. That has been the law 
ever since January 29, 1887, and it is a discrimination against the sol- 
diers of the Civil war, for that law has been in existence for sixteen 
years, while the Mexican war began but fourteen years prior to ttie Civil 
war. It is time for the comrades of the Civil war to make themselves 
heard against that discrimination, and I hope that the reunion of the 
12th Iowa at Fayette will pass a resolution endorsing the Hemenway 
bill and asking that it be promptly enacted into law. 

With the kindest regards to yourself, and to the comrades of the 
12th Iowa at the reunion at Clermont, I am 

Always sincerely yours. 
Co. A. R. P. Clakkson. 



Elwood, Iowa. June 16, '0.3. 

G. E. Comstock, 

Deau Comrade: — I received your invitation in due time and I work- 
ed and expected to meet with my old comrades of '61 once more, espec- 
ially as we were to be honored by the presence of Hon. D. B. Henderson. 
But the past weather and events have so changed my calculations that 
it will be impossible for me to attend, and with regret I send this word 
to you. Give love and greeting to all comrades of the 12th for me. 

Your comrade, 

Geo. Teskey, Co. I. 



TWELFTH IOWA 61 

PoKTLAND, Okegon, June 13, 1903. 

My Dear Comrade Comstock:— Your circular letter and program 
reached me the 8th inst and am sure you cannot conceive the tumult of 
emotion it stirred in my breast. And then to know I could not join you 
and the comrades of the Old Regiment — comrades who are dearer to me 
than my kin. I need not explain to you why. You all know, comrades, 
just to look in your faces, grasp your hand, shed a few tears together, as 
the past would come up and drive away the present, and the white hairs 
of the present be lost sight of in the dark hairs of our boyhood days, 
we would live them over again. Can we grasp the meaning of such a 
meeting here? Can it be a foretaste of the hereafter? How strange 
and satisfying it is that we can look into each other's eyes— into the 
very soul, and see you in the bygone days— the days of trial, days when 
there were scarcely enough well men to stand guard and picket. 

Then to talk of meeting Rogers, Co. B, Coolidge and Jim Taylor, 
Co. F, Stewart, Co. D, Jason Mattocks, Co. C, Harden, Co. K, Captain 
Williams, Co. E, and our old major, Brodtbeck, whom I helped lay away, 
and our good comrade, Col. Henderson, so sorely crippled, and so 
patient and cheerful. And then to be denied all this, and at Clermont, 
where I began my life work. But just remember, comrades, and friends 
of Clermont, I am with you in spirit. 

And just let me say here, the Star of Empire is moving West and 
the Barr latch string is out for the 12th Iowa. 

Comrades, give me a place in your thoughts. I do want to be with 
you. Your comrade, 

James Barr, Co. C. 



Randall, Kan., June 14, 1903. 
Mr. G. E. Comstock, Fayette, Iowa. 

Dear Comrade and Friend: — Yours of May 15th just received, delay 
I suppose caused by the floods. I am sorry to state that I cannot be with 
you at Clermont June 19. I have not the time to spare on so short notice 
and I am so banged up with rheumatism that I would hardly dare to 
make the trip if I had the time. 

This is indeed a disappointment to me. I continually live in hopes 
that I will some day greet my old comrades of the 12th at campfire re- 
union. Memory always dwells fondly and pleasantly in thinking of the 
boys of our old regiment. I hope you are all on the pleasant paths of 
life, contented and hopeful. As for me, don't worry on my account. I 
don't. I haven't a kick to make on anything, and in looking back over 
life's journey so far, I see more to feel thankful for than to regret, and 
some of the pleasantest and most cherished gems in my memory-box are 
of our old regiment as a regiment and of the many warm and true 
friends I had while with it. 

And now in conclusion, boys, have as good time as possible while to- 
gether. It won't last long and may be the last. I will be with you in 
desire and thought. Hoping that I will some day see each and all of 
you. I will close. In comradship, 

N. (t. Prick, Co. D. 



62 EIGHTH REUNION 

Bull Run Battlefield, Henry House, Va., June 10. 

Comrades of the Twelftpi Iowa: 

When I say to you that I am sorry that I cannot be with you on this 
happy day, it is a feeble expression of my feelings. But boys, you see I 
am too far out on the pieket-Iine, here in Old Virginia, to be able to 
come home to Iowa on short notice; but remember my thoughts are with 
you and my thanks to the good people of Clermont for the honor con- 
ferred on our regiment on this happy occasion. I remember you well, 
and the lively times we had down in Dixie in 1861-5. (iod bless you, 
boys. Good bye. Henry Steen, Co. G. 



Bihdseve, Montana, June 7, 1903. 

G. E. COMSTOCK, Sec, 

Fayel te, Iowa. 
Dear Sir and Comrade: — Your favor just received. 1 w(»uld like very 
much to attend reunion of old 12th Iowa on 19th, but it is just impossi- 
ble for me to do so. This is the busy season with mining people and I 
cannot make the trip and do justice to myself, although I promised 
Capt. Soper that I would attend next reunion. I must disappoint him 
again — at the risk of a reprimand. 

I wish to be kindly remembered to all comrades of .37 years ago. 

Yours truly, 

Wm. L. Lek, Co. D. 



Barhon, Wis., June 17 '03. 

G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

Received notice of our reunion and dedication of Lincoln monument 
and Col. Henderson statue, the gracious gift of that noble-souled man, 
Ex-Gov. Larrabee. It is with a sad heart of regret that I pen these 
lines of my inability to be with you at Clermont June 19th and 
20th, to enjoy once more the greetings of the "boys" I love so well. I 
greet you one and all, far and near and hope you will have the best time 
of your life. Yours, 

Wm. a. Kent, Co. C. 



Keokuk, Iowa, June 5, 190.''>. 
G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

Dear Comrade: — I received your letter and program. Am very sorry, 
indeed, that I cannot be present at the reunion of the 12th Iowa. I 
have been very ill for the past month and will have to forego this pleas- 
ure. It comes as a double disappointment, as I was unable to meet you 
at last reunion. Remember me very kindly to all the boys. Express my 
thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Larrabee for their loving testimony. They sure- 
ly have left a monument to tlieir memory and a lesson of patriotism to 
the rising generation. Very truly yours, 

Edgar C. Com;, Co. I. 



TWELFTH IOWA 63 

Lanauk, III., June 30, 1903. 

Dear Comrades of the 12th Iowa: — One of the greatest disappoint- 
ments of my life was when I received the invitation to Clermont that I 
was unable to meet you at that time. I iiave been bed-ridden for a long 
time with very poor prospects of getting well. I would have died con- 
tent could I have met you, my dear comrades, and have had one more 
look into your faces. 

My love for Old Glory has never cooled, and I am so sorry that I was 
unable to rally round the flag with the Dear Old Twelfth. 

If the Great Commander shall see fit to gather me home and I never 
see any of you again on earth, I hope you will all meet me in Heaven. 

Yours affectionately, 

Geo. W. Annis, Co. F. 



Georgetown, Custer County, Neb., June 15, '03. 
Mr. G. E. Comstock, Fayette, Iowa. 

Dear Comrade:— I just received the notice of the reunion of the 
12th Iowa at Clermont, Iowa, Saturday evening, and it increased that 
longing desire to meet my old comrades at a reunion, a pleasure I have 
never enjoyed. I did resolve last winter that I would attend the first 
or next reunion of the old 12th Iowa and enjoy once more a good hand- 
shake; but I regret to say that after all my resolves, I am unable to 
attend on account of pf)or healtli. But I will try again. 

1 hope that I will be the only one that cannot attend, and I hope 
that you will have a good time and that the reunion will be a success. I 
remember all the old comrades and I think of them often; and if I can- 
not see them, I would like to hear from any or all of them. 

I would like to write more, but it is with much difficulty that I 
write this, on account of my eyes. 

Fraternally, 

Frank Morrow, Co. D- 



Absarokee, Montana, June 4, 1903. 

Mr. G. E. Comstock, Fayette, Iowa. 

Dear Comrades of the 12th Iowa:— Just received notice of our reun- 
ion. It found me out here among the hills of Montana and in such shape 
that I cannot meet with you this time. I came out to this country a 
year ago for my liealth and t;)ok up a ranch, and as luck would have it, I 
have advertised to prove up June 20. So comrades, you can see it is im- 
possible for me to be there; but my mind and well wishes are with you 
all, hoping you will have a good old time. Think of me while you are 
having it. I will liave to close, hoping if tliere is anotlier reunion of the 
12th Iowa I will be able to attend. Love to the boys of the old 12tli Iowa. 
So good bye, one and all. 

Ft. L. Bird, Co. E. 



«4 EIGHTH REUNION 

Washington, 1) C , June 12, 190.3. 
Mr. G. E. Comstock, Fayette, Iowa. 

Deak Comuade:— I received your kind invitation to be present at a 
reunion of tlie 12tli Iowa Veter-en V^olunteers on June 19 at Clermont, 
at which time and place a statue of Col. D. B. Henderson is to be un- 
veiled and dedicated by our regiment through the courtesy of Governor 
Larrabee — a very plesant privilege, for Col. Henderson was one of us on 
the bloody field of Shiloh, and is one of us still, whom we are ve.iy proud 
to claim and honor. His name and fame have gone far beyond the con- 
tines of the State and Nation, not only as a military hero but as the peer 
of any statesman in the land. 

I am proud to have been a humble member of the famous old 12th 
regiment, and I regret exceedingly that I shall not be able to be pres- 
ent at the unveiling, as I personally would receive more honor and pleas- 
ure than my presence could impart to the occasion. 

My heart and thoughts are with you one and all for evermore. 

Fraternally yours, 

S. R. BuucH, Late Adjutant. 



PiTTSBUKG Landing, Tenn., July 1'), 1903. 
John Steen, Wahoo, Neb. 

Dear Comrade:- -Enclosed find postottice order for four dollars, the 
balance I agreed to give for expenses of our regimental association at 
Clermont, Iowa. 

Didn't we have a jolly time, and when will we have another? Echo 
answers when, and should we have one in four years, how many that we 
took by the hand will have gone to join the tinal muster, no one can tell. 

I am getting along here on the park nicely, except at times 1 am 
lonesome. All my partners are away at present on their annual leave of 
absence. I generally take mine in winter time, for the reason that the 
line of work I do, I can be better spared from it in winter than at this 
time of year. Plea.se acknowledge receipt of the order and believe me, 

Your ever true comrade, 

T. J. Lewis, Co. D. 



RuKWELL, Neb., June IS, 190.3. 

Dear Comrades of the Twelfth Iowa: 

No pen of mine can portray my regret at not being able to answer 
"here" at roll call tomorrow. But owing to the fact that my aged father 
of Maquoketa, la., is visiting me and I realize that his visits are num- 
bered; therefore, I am unable to leave home. I desire, however, to join 
the boys in extending hearty thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Larrabee for their 
kind consideration of us, and especially ask my comrades that when they 
gather around the camptire they will throw on a rail for me. And I 
trust our Supreme Commander may permit us to "Rally round the Flag" 
and enjoy a few more campfires. I commend you all to His care, and 
remain Yours truly in F., C. and L., 

MeLI.VILI.K 11 GOODENOW, Co. I. 



TWELFTH IOWA 65 

Seattle, Wash., June 2, '03. 

Dear Comrades of the 12th Iowa:- -Your secretary's letter of May 15, 
telUng of ycur reunion at Clermont June 19, and inclosing program, re- 
ceived yesterday. Yes, I'll be there, in spirit. My body, about that 
time, will probably be at or near Juneau, Alaska. I'll sing the "Star- 
Spangled Banner" and I wan't all "you'n's" to "jine in" the chorus. 

Do you remember "Pontotoc to TupeloV" I do not forget it. Some 
of you will remember my experience as a nurse, remaining behind to 
look after the wounded and being afterwards held as prisoner, instead of 
being returned to our lines, as a nurse should have been. 

I am now postal clerk on the steamship, "Cottage City," between 
Seattle and Skagway. Mrs. Andrews joins in mourning our inability to 
go to the "banks of the Turkey" to eat turkey with you, also in sending 
greetings. She also wishes me to add further that she does not forget to 
remember to scold me occasionally for bringing her so far away from the 
12th Iowa reunions. However, we have hopes for the fature. 

Yours in F. C. & L., 

Box 1401 Seattle, Wash Hiram R. Andrews, Co. B. 



Ada, Kansas, June 10, '03. 

Dear Comrade Comstock:— Yours of 14th just received, having been 
delayed by our Kansas rtood. I thank you for your kindness in sending 
me the notice of the reunion. I have a deep interest in Iowa where my 
home was for twelve years. The members of the old 12th have a warm 
place in my heart. God bless them. How I would like to see you all 

My soldier life was short. When we returned from acting as Jeff 
Davis' menagerie, and got back to St. Louis, there was just enough left 
of me to discharge. Reached home at Sand Springs Christmas, '62. The 
boys as they were before the Shiloh fight are photographed on my mem- 
ory, and although I have met most of you since, having been twice at 
Manchester, I remember you best as you were in '61-2. I think that I 
never loved a man (a man I had never spoken to) as I loved Col. Stibbs, 
for taking us from Annapolis, Md., as prisoners, to our homes. May his 
shadow never grow less! Love to all of the boys and especially to any of 
Co. K. Accept the same for yourself, whom I well remember. 

Yours in F., C. & L.. 

N. H. Baldwin, Co. K. 



Grant's Pass, Ore., June — , 190.3. 
G. E. Comstock, Sec. 

Dear Comrades:— It is with regret that I can't be with you this year 
—I am too far away. I think I shall work back east; Oregon doesn't suit 
me. I will try to be with you next time. 

My healtli is good. I wish you were all here to eat bear-meat with 
me today. We got a tine cinnamon yesterday only four miles from town. 
With love and best wishes to all, I remain Yours, &c., 

J. H. Ross, Co. D. 



Preston, Minn., June 16, 190.3. 
G. E. Comstock, Sec. 

Dear Comrade:— I received your notice of reunion and program. I 
am very sorry to say that it will be impossible for me to be there, but 
with this I send greeting to all "the boys." I know you will have a jolly 
goctd time. My best wishes to all who may be there. 

Ever yours." Gkouoe Ibach, Co. B. 



66 EIGHTH RE LI X ION 

Sioux City, Iowa, June Ifi, 1903. 
G. E. CoMSTocK, Skc. 

Fayette, Iowa. 
My Dkau Comkadk;— It is with profound regret that I am compelled 
to say in response to your cordial and urgent request in your favor of the 
15th that it will be impossible for me to attend at the dedication of Lin- 
coln monument, Henderson statue and Reunion of the old 12th Iowa, at 
Clermont. I have had the extreme pleasure of being present at every 
reunion of the regiment except that in 1884, and I look back with the 
highest degree of satisfaction that it has been my good fortune to attend 
so many of these grand and pleasurable occasions. I only regret that I 
could not attend all of them, including the one this week. Hope you 
may have a successful and glorious reunion. Please express my undying 
devotion and love to every old friend and comrade of the "old 12th," and 
while we know that all of us are getting far down the westward slope of 
life, yet so long as we shall travel that way to the great unknown, we 
will linger and love each other still. May heaven bless all tlie "old boys" 
whether able or unable to be at Clermont. 

Yours in F. C. & L., 

J. N. Wkaveii, Ci.. D 



DwioiiT, Kansas, June 16, 1903. 
Dear Comrades: — Received your notice of our next reunion. Am 
sorry to say it will be impossible for me to be with you this time. Cir- 
cumstances over which I had no control hinder me. I had my house 
burned and had to rebuild, and the terrible Hoods in this country washed 
out the crops and drowned our stock. Were it not for this double mis- 
fortune I would be with you. Nothing would give me more pleasure 
than to meet with the old boys once more before the last roll call. 1 
hope you will have a good time. 1 know I would were it so I could be 
with you. If any of the 12th Iowa boys ever come to our county, be sure 
to come and see me. I live in Morris county near the Rock Island rail- 
road. Fraternally yours, 

J. F. Lice, Co. F. 



Linton, N. I)., June 19, '0.3. 
Mr. G. E. Comstock, Fayette, Iowa. 

Dear Comrade:— This, the first day of the reunion of the 12th Iowa 
at Clermont, I am away otf in North Dakota, but my heart is with you, 
and I regret that I cannot be with you. I am up here holding down a 
claim. Will prove up on my claim next spring, then will go back to 
Plankinton, S. D., to spend the rest of my life. 

I hope you are having a good time. Give my best wishes to all the 
boys of the 12th and especially those of Co. D. I hope that we may live 
to have lots of reunions yet. With thanks to you for the kind invitation 
to the reunion, I remain, Yours in F. C. & L., 

R. C. COWELL, Co. D. 



Lawton, Okla., June 21, 1903. 
Dear C(»mrades: — I received your very kind letter inviting me to your 



TWELFTH JOVVA 67 

reunion, and was glad you had not forgotten "the little red wagon," as 
the boys used to call me. Comrades, 1 am well and hearty and chuck 
full of fun, for that is what will prolong our lives. 1 feel as young as I 
used to be. Yes, dear comrades, be cheerful. 

I did think that I would be with you at the reunion, but I am so 
busy in my sliop that it is too much of a sacrifice to leave just now I 
would have to be out at least $100. Now, comrades, you will have to 
excuse me. I send you these few lines to let you know that my heart is 
with you and that I have not forgotten one of the dear boys, God bless 
them. I have lived here two years. The first year I was sick about all 
the time, but since I got acclimated I have had good health. I did not 
draw a claim, I came too late. I am doing very well running a wagon 
shop. Boys, write to me and tell me how you are getting along. I have 
been a widower eighteen years, but as soon as I get old enough I think I 
shall marry again; so if you come across some dashing widow, send her 
this way. Comrades, this is all and I remain as ever your friend, 

Isaac Johnsox, "The Little Red Wagon" of Co. I. 

Maquoketa, Ia., June 16, 1903. 
Bear Comrades:-I am sorry to say that I cannot be with you all at 
tlie reunion: but as circumstances are, it is impossible for me to attend 
I send my best regards to all and wish you all a jolly good time. 

Respectfully, 

Maiuon Rollf, Co. I. 

G. E. CoMSTOOK, Skc. ^'^"'""' '^- ^*-' ^""^ ^^' '^^''- 

Dear Comrade:— I have your announcement of the reunion of the 
12th Iowa at Clermont, and am reminded by it that "Again the shadow 
passeso'er the dial-plate of time." I wish 1 could be with you once 
more, but business holds me here. Please convey my warmest wishes to 
all the members of the gallant Twelfth for a m(.st enjoyable reunion. 

Yours fraternally, 
John Rkemnkk, Co. F. 

ATo n t:^ r. t. . . '^'''- P^^^L, MiNN., June 14, '0.3. 

Mr. G. E. CO5IST0CK, Fayette, Iowa. 

Dear Comrades of the 12th and Co. D in particular:-: am still on 
earth and drawing rations. I came to you at East port. Miss., as a "raw 
recruit" for one year and was assigned to Co. D. I went with the regi- 
ment one year and was with you at Spanish Fort, marched with you "to 
Montgomery and Selma, Ala. Now, comrades, I said I came to you as a 
raw recruit; but I had served three years before in what I believed the 
best regiment ever mustered into the service (the fifth Iowa Inf. ). But 
I found also that comrades of the 12th Iowa were good and true and 
stood right upon tire battle line, always ready for duty. It would give 
me great pleasure to meet with you at Clermont, but cannot. My wife is 
an invalid and I cannot leave her. May an all-wise Providence bless and 
comfort you in your declining years, is the wish of your comrade, 
959 Reaneyst. W. H." Howahd, Co. D. 



68 EIGHTH RELTNIO>' 

SPECIAL. 

To stir up your pure minds by way of remembrance, and to refreshen 
the memories of us all, as well as to enliven the patriotic zeal of all who 
may chance to read this book, I herewith insert a part of Lieut. -Col. 
S. B. Edgington's address given at our third reunion held at Waterloo, 
[owa, in 1888.— (G. E. C, Sec.) 

When we think of who is most entitled to praise for saving the union, 
we do not think of our great generals and brilliant commanders — all hon- 
or to them and their noble deeds— but rather do we think of the brave 
men who carried their muskets, that stormed the trenches of Donelson 
and Vicksburg, who stood like walls of living flame at Shiloh and Gettys- 
burg; and of the men who carried their muskets and one hundred rounds 
of cartridges and marched under Sherman from Atlanta to the sea. 

These old veterans we have with us here to the gratitude (jf every 
American citizen. The men who carried and the men who followed that 
dear old flag. These are the men who, in 1801, put pleading love aside, 
unclasped the dimpled hands of prattling babes fast locked about their 
necks, parted from wife and child because their country called. Boys 
who forced back their tears, forsook a father's house and the happy home 
group, the loved maiden and the joys of youth, and with mother's kisses 
warm on their lips went to the field of battle, following their flag. 

When in my dreams, or when my mind dwells on army days and I 
think of those killed in battle or died in hospital, or were starved to 
death in southern prison hells, I seem to hear something saying, "Com- 
rade, we are in a fairer land than earth; we are in and enjoy a realm 
where the rainbow shines brightly evermore; where the sun, moon and 
stars are spread out before us like islands, great and small, on the great 
ocean of eternity; here traitors never come and treason is unknown. We 
leave robes of blue, for robes of gray are not used here." 

Men who left home and loved ones and endured withcmt a murmur 
the privations of camp and Held; men who stof)d unmoved amid the 
storms of leaden hail— yes, brave, honorable and true men who never 
turned their backs on friend or foe — these are the men who saved our 
country and flag. 

No other country on the face of the earth could have survived and 
come through so tierce a war with her territory intact, with the 
rights and liberties of all her people maintained; none other but tliis our 
own Columbia, "the land of the brave and the free." 

These veterans of the 12th Iowa Infantry were in twenty-three 
battles. They were under the rebel tire 112 days. They marched dur- 
ing their term of service— four years and three months — 2,670 miles. They 
traveled by water and land 13,809 miles. Total number of casual cits 582. 
Total number killed in battle, 95. Total number died of disease, 217. 
Total number discharged for disease and wounds, 247. They were first 
in the fight and last to leave the Held. They sulVered in southern 
prison hells for more than six months, and some for more than a year. 

This short historical sketch is given for the benefit of those who 
have grown up since the war, that they may better know what the old 
veterans did to .save our country and flag from the traitors' grasp. 

Comrades of the grand old 12th Iowa, veterans of twenty-three 
hard fought battles, behold that dear old flag again. 

With its stars and its stripes, and the red white and blue. 
So dear to the heart of all loyal and true: 
The banner of our Union, the flag of the brave and the free. 
On hilltop or in valley, or down by the sea. 

In peace or in war, all hail to the flag of our country wherever it 
waves! 







L 






THE SURRENDER AT APPOMATTOX. 

INSCRII'TION ON TAUI.ET: 

On tln> West Side, the SiiriPiuU'i- at Appomattox— Scene in the McLesin lionse, (Jen 
Grant ;im<1 (Jen. Lee in I'lont ; (ien. Slieiidan on e.xtreiiie liijlil : (iens. i;;i wiins. I'oilef, 
Williams arid Ord slatidini;; Col. .Mmsliall of Lee's staff. Col. I';ir Uetof (i(;int's statf. 

"With riialiee towards none, witli chiirity forall. willi firmness in l lie liiilil as (Jod 
<_'i ves us to see t lie liiilil . let lis st li ve to linisli t lie woil; we Me in." 



TWELFTH IOWA 69 



Zn 2ncmonam, 



Co tfjc liping, (£I?cerful praises: tEo tl^c beab, Brtgljt ^loujcrs, 
Street JlTemortes. 



[As I recall these names, one by one, all of whom I remember so 
well, and one being my own brother, and think of the days when we 
were young, of prison pen, the awful carnage of battle, the march, the 
camp, I realize mnre than ever that these are the ties that bind us, the 
severance of which causes us to mourn when they depart. I find it im- 
possible to publish lengthy obituaries, all of them good. It seems impos- 
sible to cut them down; it seems like mutilating a tablet to their 
memory.- -G. E. C. ] 



HENRY SMITH, of Maquoketa, Iowa, and member of Co. I, died 
June 19, 190.3 (day of our reunion) aged 70 years. He was engaged in 
the plumbing business and liad been a resident of Maquoketa for 40 years. 
Comrade Smith was a man of the highest character and as a citizen and 
business man of Maquoketa was held in high regard. He was a man of 
even temperament, always courteous. One more old soldier of the 12th 
has passed over the line that divides time from eternity and is now with 
the silent Grand Army. 



JOHN A. VAN ANDA, Fremont, Neb., was born in Mt. Vernon, 
Ohio, March 15, 1840, and died at his liome in Fremont, Neb., July 10, 
1903. In September, 18(51 he enlisted in Co. II, 12th Iowa; taken prisoner 
at Shiloh and for over six months suffered in prison, resulting in shatter- 
ed health: discharged in 1863. When recuperated in health, re-enlisted 
in 44t}i Iowa Inft. and served to the close of the war. One of his last re- 
quests was to be buried in his G. A R. uniform. He was a member of 
the M. E. church and for forty years an official member; belonged to the 
Centennial lodge I. O. O. F., and McPherson post G. A. R., to both of 
wliicb he was greatly attached. Possessed of a glorious hope of immor- 



70 EIGHTH REUNION 

tality, he shrank not from a contemplation of death but conversed freely 
thereon with a serenity known only to such as are ripe for the Kingdom. 
His prayers, songs and testimonies all exhibited a fitness for the expected 
change. Toward the last he held up his hands to heaven, assisted by his 
devoted wife. And so, having served his generation as a christian, a sol- 
dier, a loving father and husband, and a citizen beloved by all, by the 
will of God he fell asleep. 



CHARLES E. MERRTAM of Hopkinton, Iowa. Born in Princeton, 
Mass., Jan. 22, 1845; died Dec. 19, 1902. He enlisted when about seven- 
teen, September 1861 re-enlisting, and serving faithfully to tlie end of 
the struggle. He was among the number captured in "Hell's Hollow" 
at Shiloh; confined in prison at Montgomery, Ala.. Macon. Ga.. and Lib- 
by prison. He was wounded at Vicksburg, and again severely at Tupelo, 
Miss., July 14, 1864. 

In civil life Mr. Merriam had served his community in almost every 
capacity. He was postmaster for sixteen years, being appointed under 
Grant's tirst term and serving under Hayes, Garfield and Arthur until Ihe 
election of Cleveland. He had served at various times on the council 
and as treasurer of the town, and was closely identified with the business 
interests and progress of Hopkinton. 

RESOLUTIONS HY HOPKINTON STATE BANK. 

"Whereas, God in His providence has seen fit to remove by death 
Charles E. Merriam. our faithful and etflcient cashier and memV)er of the 
board of directors, now be it 

Resolved, That we, the surviving directors of the Hoi^kinton Stale 
Bank, sincerely mourn his lf»ss and deeply regret the untimely taking 
away of one so useful and one with whom all our relations have been 
most close and cordial. 

Resolved, That we cherish the memory of his wise and conserva- 
tive counsels as a valuable guide in the aflfairs of this institution. 

Resolved, That a copy of these resolutions be spread upon the record 
books of the bank, a copy handed to Mrs. Merriam and a copy puiiiislud 
in the Hopkinton Leader. F. B. DOOLITTLE, 

M. L. McGLADE, 
R. G. BROOKS, 
MARY R. DOOLITTLE. 

w. H. Trio>rpsoN, 

FRANK E. WILLI AM.SOX. 
Dated at Hopkinton, Iowa, December 20, 1902. 



CAPT. W. L. ITENDERSX:)N. 

Another veteran has gone to his reward, Captain Henderson of Cres- 
co, Iowa, having been brought to Postville cemetery where bis father, 
mother and other relatives are buried. The remains and friends were 
met at the depot by the G. A. R. of Postville and some of his own com- 
pany, Co. C, 12th Iowa Inf. The following day funeral services to(»k place 
at the Congregational church and were C(»nducted by Rev. S. W. Pollard, 
who delivered a very fine address. "Gone to Rest," was very touoliingly 
rendered. One of the most pathetic scenes, and one that would fill the 



twp:lfth IOWA 71 

soul with deepest emotion, was when his old comrades of Co. C surround- 
ed the remains to take a last farewell, while the choir sang sweetly, 
"God be with you till we meet again." Co. C was the company that Col. 
I). B. Henderson, brother of deceased, recruited and also enlisted with 
in 'ttl, and among the comrades of that company present, acting as pall- 
bearers were Maj. D. W. Reed, Chicago; Hart Spears, Westgate; H. J. 
Grannis, of Randal ia, and G. E. Comstock of Fayette, Iowa. Mr. Gran- 
nis was color bearer of the regiment and the only one it ever had serving 
in that capacity over four years and who was in every engagement and 
on every march of the regiment. The flag carried by Comrade Grannis 
was draped over the casket with beautiful flowers. At the grave, upon 
removing that beautiful old war-worn banner, Maj. Reed pronounced, 
in behalf of his comrades, an eulogy in a few well chosen words. 
They were thrice beautiful because of their coming from a C(»m- 
rade wlio knew the dead veteran so well. 

Capt. W. L. Henderson was born in Old Deer, Aberdeenshire, Scot- 
land, May 28, 18;i3. He came to America when 15 years old, and to Post- 
ville, Iowa, in 1850. He was married to Clara J. Durno March 27, 1856, 
and died at Riceville, Iowa, June 19, 1897, aged 64 years. He leaves a 
wife and four grown children, Frank H., of South St. Paul, Minn; Judson 
H., Riceville. la., Mrs. Maud Ramsey, of Racine, Wis., and and Mrs. 
(Ju.ssie .Johnson, of Lime Springs, Iowa. Capt. Henderson was an excep- 
tional man, "the noblest work of God," because he was a strictly honest 
man. He had a pleasant smile for everybody, and as a husband and 
father was kind he;irted, true and good. As a soldier he was one of the 
best. He was modest, retiring, unpretentious, yet persistent and tirm as 
the rocks when his mind was settled upon the right of any subject upon 
whicii he gave study and thought. He enlisted in Co. C, 12th Infantry, 
Sept. 15, 1861, re-enlisted Dec. 25, 1863, and was mu.stered out Jan. 20, '66. 
Al! these years he rendered faithful services, participating in most of 
the engjigements in which the regiment took part, some of which were 
I'ort Donaldson, Shiloh, Vicksburg. Jackson, Nnshville, Tupelo, Spanish 
Fovl and Fort Blakely. 

And so they are "dropping from the ranks, one by one." 



LIEUr.-COL. S G. K.VEE, brevet colonel, was born in Martins- 
burg, Pa., March 11, 18:M. Moved to Deleware Co., la., in 185.5. Enlisted 
in Co H, 12t!i Iowa, Sept. 19, 1861. Mustered in as 1st Serg't; was pro- 
moted from time to time. (Jommanded the regiment from February, 
'65, to muster out, Jan. 20, 1866. He participated in the battles of Fort 
Henry, Fort Donaldson, Shiloh. Jackson, Vicksburg, Tupelo, Nashville, 
Spanish Fort; confined in pri.son at Montgomery, Macon and Libby, at 
one time six months. Upon muster out he returned to Colesburg, Iowa, 
where he engaged in mercantile pursuits, making a success of it. He 
died at his home August i:>, 18'.)(). 

Colonel Knee was a prominent member of the Masonic and Odd Fel- 
lows fraternities. He was not a member of any church, but was an 
attendant upon the services of the Congregational society; was also a 
valued member of W. A. Morse post G. A. R., of Manchester, Iowa. He 
was a lirni and loyal friend, as he had been a brave and faithful soldier. 



72 EIGHTH REUNION 

B^RANK W. COMSTOCK was born in Chicago, 111., June 25, 1848. 
Enlisted in Co. C, 12th [owa, as a recruit, April 27, 1864, at the age of 
fifteen years. He was with us in the Pontotoc raid and battle of Tupelo. 
The extreme hot weather and marching was too much for one so young. 
He was sick a long time in the hospital at Memphis, Tenn. He never 
fully recovered. It was during the exposure of the compaigns that the 
germs of the disease which finally resulted in his death tirst found lodg- 
ment in his system. He was present at the Clermont reunion, being the 
first he was ever able to attend. He .said he never enjoyed anything 
equal to it. Little did he think then that in two months from that 
time he would be with the Grand Army above, where so many of our 
comrades have gone. Loving hands fought hard, but at 11 o'clock Mon- 
day morning August 10, 1903, from hemorrhage of the stomach, he died 
very suddenly. In October, 1888, he was married to Miss Teressa Keil- 
hack, who cared for him as only a loving wife could, during his long ill- 
ness, which continued with more or less severity for the past five years. 

"So let our heroes rest 

Upon your sunny breast; 
Keep them, O South, our tender hearts and true; 
Keep them, O South, and learn to hold them dear 

From year to yearl 

Never forget, 
Dying for us they died for you. 
This hallowed dust should knit us closer yet." 



A Faithful Solcijer done to Rest 

SAMUEL C. BECK was born in Clarion county, Pa., Sept. 22, 1838. 
At the time of his death at Waverly, Iowa, May 27, 1904, he was in his 
66th year. When but a young man the family moved west, settling in 
Fayette county, Iowa. In early life Mr. Beck purposed securing a 
thorough education. In keeping with this desire, he took advantage of 
the public school, and later became a student in the Upper Iowa Univer- 
sity at Fayette. In 1861 he responded to the call of his country, and 
leaving college he enlisted in Co. C, 12th Iowa Inft. For three years he 
faced the dangers and endured the severe hardships of the civil strife. 
As a prisoner he spent seven months in Montgomery, Macon and Libby 
prisons. At the expiration of a term of three years service he was dis- 
charged on account of failing health. For a while the family and friends 
despaired of his life, but through the patient and unselfish efforts of his 
loved ones and friends, he was nursed back to health. 

On the 11th of May, 1871, he was united in marriage to Mary 
Ilursh of Waverly. They spent the first years of their married life on a 
farm in Fayette county. To them were born seven children; of these, 
Dor A., Cyrus, Bert, Elsie and Mrs. Patchin with the mother are left to 
mourn. Nineteen years ago Comrade Beck with his family moved to 
Waverly where they have since resided. Mr. Beck was converted at 17 
years of age and united with the M. E. church. He has been a faithful 
and consistent member for nearly fifty years. The funeral was conducted 
by Rev. Frank Cole, assisted by Rev. W. W. Smith. 



TWELFTH IOWA 73 

CAPT. IIIEL HALL, of Co. D, was one of the original members 
of the company; was elected Second Lieutenant; promoted to First, and 
again to Captain, resigning Dec. 26, 1864. 

I am without the details of his sickness and death. He died in 
March, 1903, in Tucson, Ariz., where I understand he had gone for his 
health. He was a model soldier and officer, one of superior dignity and 
commanding presence, beloved by all who had the pleasure of his 
acquaintance. 



GEN. A. J. SMITH died, from the effects of a paralytic stroke, 
July 30, 1897, at St. Louis, Mo., at the advanced age of eighty-two years. 
Tlie end came peacefully in the presence of his wife, his only son, Wil- 
liam Beaumont Smith, Mrs. Edgar Miller and Mrs. W. T. Mason. The 
last named is a daughter of the late Col. Stephen Kearney, who was Gen. 
Smith's first commanding officer in the Mexican war. Mrs. Smith had 
stepped into the kitchen for a few minutes, and when she returned slie 
found her husband unconscious. He never regained complete conscious- 
ness. At times he Vv'ould have lucid periods during which he would talk 
about some of the battles in which he had participated. At other times 
he would repeatedly call out for his son. 

Gen. Smith was born in Bucks county, Pa., April 21, 1815, and named 
in honor of Andrew .Jackson, who afterward, when president, gave him 
an appointment to West Point. His father was Gen. Samuel Smith, who 
served witli distinction in the war of 1812, and his grandfather was Gen. 
Hugh Smith, who served under Washington in the American revolution. 
He was educated in Philadelphia and at West Point, and came west at 
an early age. Gen. Smith vv-as stationed when a young lieutenant at 
Jefferson barracks, and while tliere met, wooed and married Miss Ann 
Mason Simpson, who survives him. Mrs. Smith was a daughter of the 
late Dr. Robert Simpson, who at the time of his death was said to be the 
oldest American inliabitant at St. Louis. 

Gen. Smith served in both the Mexican and civil wars. He was en- 
gaged in many battles, and was complimented and advanced in rank for 
valor at the battles of Pleasant Hill, La., and Tupelo, Miss., and other 
tierce engagements. In 1872 lie was appointed postmaster at St. Louis, 
and live years later was elected city auditor. Tliis position he filled for 
twelve years, being elected every time he ran. Congress placed him on 
the retired list of army generals in 1889. 



Reminiscences of Out Army Nurse, Mrs. Rebecca Otis, 
of Manchester, Iowa. 



The following is condensed from an article written and published as 
a souvenir by her friend, Mrs. H. Eaton, of Manchester, I()wa; 

The virtues of men and women have been related in song and story 
through all time. It is a notable sacrifice to devote the best part of 
one's life to administering to the wants of those fallen in battle for their 
Cf)untry's honor. While wcunan's mission as a military nurse is a devel- 
opmeiit of later civilization, the success of a goad woman in this trying 



74 EIGHTH REUNION 

and dillicult position, only proves liovv entirely she is to the manor born. 
To this army of healers belongs the subject c»f this sketch, who was with 
us once more at our Clermont reunion to gladden the hearts and renew 
the lives of "her boys," as well as to receive the congratulations of all 
present, who were cmly too glad to do her honor. 

Mrs. Rebecca Otis was a native of north Ireland, of Scotch descent. 
Born in 1826, she is now in her 78Lh year. Coming to xVmerica in her 
girlhood days, she drifted westward with the tide, linally settling in the 
little town of Manchester, Iowa. When the war broke out, Mrs. Oils 
enlisted as an army nurse and her devoted services were given unt il the 
close of the war. Her great sympathy for suffering humanity, her kind 
and gentle tenderness, soon made the soldier feel that she was his friend. 
After she had administered to them several weeks, some of them asked 
the privilege to call her mother. She replied that slie would be proud 
to be a mother to so many brave boys. And mother she was to all during 
her service in the hospital. Hers to cheer and cfi^Tifort the wounded 
and homesick ones as they were brought in bleeding from the battlefield, 
and many times unto death. She remained by each one as he passed 
over the river, giving him words of comfort and solace. As mother and 
friend her work was not tinislied until she had procured and prepared 
proper clothing for buriel. When her day's work was ended and the 
other inmates of the hospital were preparing for rest, she was writing 
tlie home letters for"her boys", writing as many as eleven in one evening; 
writing from dictation it they were able, and if not, composing the mes- 
sage wliicii was to convey intelligence to mother, sister or sweetheart, as 
to the whereabouts and condition of their boy. Soon tlie letters came in 
that clieered and comforted the surviving ones. When the doctor had 
a patient wlio was past help for his remedies he would tmm him over 
to Mrs. Otis and say: "Here, mother, you may prescribe for this one:" 
and by lier skillful nursing slie often saved their lives. 

That Mrs. Otis lias lived so many years since the trying scenes in 
the hospital, is the wonder of her friends. She has been most patient 
and kind through all her sutTering and is now patiently awaiting the 
summons, "come up liigher." 

Who then can sootlie even as a mother? Srie who is indeed a hero- 
ine, with lier tender ministration, lier look so kind: her gentle voice; 
closing the eyes of those who wake no more: winning back to life and 
country those "half across the river." 

"Whom the wounded bless, 
For her tender care. 

And name as a saint 
In their evening prayer; 

Kissing her shadow, did it fall 
Across their pilUnvs from oir the wall." 



TWELFTH IOWA 



ROSTER OF SURVIVING MEMBERS OF THE 
TWELFTH IOWA VET. VOL. INFT. 



FIELD AND STAFF. 

Col. J. H. Stibbs, 160 Adams st., Chicago, 111- 

Major E. M. VanDuzee, Jackson and Fifth sts., St. Paul, Minn. 

Major D. W. Reed, 2008, Sherman ave , Evanston, 111. 

Surgeon Charles C Parker, Fayette, Iowa. 

Assistant Surgeon, W. H. Finley, Coggan, Iowa. 

James Barr, 554 Third st., Portland, Oregon. 

Adjutant, N. E. Duncan, 

" S. R. Burch, Agricultural department, Washington, D. C. 
Quartermaster Geo.H.Murisey,236 New Jersey ave,n.w., Washington, D. C. 
H. C. Morehead, Cedar Rapids, Iowa. 

Chaplain Frederick Humphrey, 

Serg't Major A. J. Rodgers, 1157 Fifty-seventh st., Chicago, 111. 

Q. M. Sergeant John Steen, Wahoo, Neb. 

Hosp. Steward J. C. H. Hobbs, 1441 G st., Lincoln, Neb. 

Hosp. Steward Samuel J. Walker, Oakwood, Mo. 

Drum Major S. M. French, 3205 W. Twenty-sixth st., Denver, Col. 

Color Sergeant 11. J. Grannis, Fayette, Iowa, 

COMPANY A. 



Capt. J. R. C. Hunter, Webster 

City, Iowa. 
Capt. John D. Congar, Eldora, la. 
Lieut. Cyrus M. Runkle, Eldora, la. 

" T. B. Edgington,Memph!s,Tenn 
S'.^rg't Francis Fountain, Marshall- 
town, la. (Soldiers' Home) 

" Geo. W. Rulow, South Bend, Ind. 

" Geo. W. Reed. Yarkie, Mo. 

" R. P. Clarkson, Des Moines, la. 

" Eugene C. Combs, Hanover, 111, 

" Seth Macy, Des Moines, la. 

" K. S. Sprague, Blair, Neb. 

" R. E. Kellogg, Alden, la. 

" Geo. H. Cobb, Eldora, la. 
Corp'l S. B. Brown, Jewell City, Kan 
E. S, Sawin, Union, Iowa. 

" Wm, W. Moore, Manchester, la 

" Levi Dobbins, Eldora, la. 

"■ W. G. McPherson, Milbank,S.D. 

" T. H. Wilson, Robertson, la. 



Armstrong, B. A,, Liscomb, la. 
Bell, Thomas R„ Eldora, la. 
Brothers, Ananias, Magnolia, Ohio. 
Brown, S, B., Jewell City, Kan. 
Cromwoll, F. C, Oakland, Iowa. 
Crist, Job, Marshalltov/n, la. 
Cramer, Hamilton, Highmore, S. D. 
Elsworth, D, V,, Newman's Grove, 

Neb. 
Ferree, S. R. Belle Plaine, la. 
Glass, Carl, Dayton, 0. (Mil. Home) 
Hoskins, G. H., Maryville, Mo. 
Kemp, Sumner, Alden, Iowa. 
Mann, William, Steamboat Rock, la 
Moore, G. W., Maryville, Mo. 
Mitchell, G. W., Lawn Hill, la. 
Richards, Jos, M., Ft, Dodge, la. 
Wickham, A. J,, Eagle City, la. 
Zeigler, James W,, Eldora, Iowa, 
Zeiger, N. W., Buffalo Center, la. 



EIGHTH REUNION 



COMPANY B. 



Capt. W. C. Earle, Waukon, la. 
Lieut.J.P. Jackson,Village Creekja 
Lieut. John D. Cole,Wauwatosa,Wis 
Serg't John Upstrom, 403 Fourth 

St., Sioux Falls, S. D. 
Serg't Geo. Ibach, Preston, Minn. 

" Wm. P. Winter, Bancroft, la 
Corp'l Stephen Thibedo, 

" I. B. S. Isted, 

" W. B. Bort, Viroqua, Wis. 

" Mathias Englehorn, 

" L. D. Bearce, Onawa, la. 

" John Dowling, Waukon, la. 

" J. H. Butts, Cherokee, la. 

" Robt. Wampler, Waukon, la. 

" Fred Monk, Eitzen, Minn. 
Andrews, H. R., Anacortes, Wash. 
Bathen, Robert, Riceville, la. 
Bort, A. K., Viroqua, Wis. 
Bailey, W. F., St. Paul, Minn. 
Bailey, George, St. Paul, Minn. 
Burlingame, 0. D., 193 So. Water 
St., Chicago, 111. 

COMPANY 



Decker, Adam, Lansing, Iowa. 
Dowling, Thomas, Rossville, la. 
Erickson, E. A., Salem, S. D. 
Ferguson, B., Akron; Iowa. 
Goodykoontz, D. F., Boone, la. 
Greenup, S. H., Motely, Minn. 
Iverson, Knudt, Lansing, la. 
Klees, Frank, Rossville, la. 
Larson, Aslack, Preston, Minn. 
McCabe, Hugh, Waukon, la. 
McClintock, James, Rossville, la. 
McGuire, Bryan, Freeport, Hi. 
Ogan, Chas. C, Sibley, la. 
Oleson, John, Spring Grove, Minn. 
Plank, Levi, DeFuniak Springs, Fla 
Peck, John P., Plankinton, S. D. 
Roe, Charles E., 320 East Eighth 

St., Waterloo, la. 
Russell, Charles, Brooklyn, Mo. 
Sanner, Michael F., Rossville, la. 
Smith, Samuel C, N. McGregor, la 
Wanberg, Ole, Spring Grove, Minn 
Woodmansee, Isaac, Rossville, la. 

C 



Capt. Wm. W. Warner, died Mem- 
phis, Tenn, Dec. 12, 1863. 

Capt. Geo. W. Cook, Huron, S. D. 

Lieut. D. B. Henderson, (Col. 46th 
Iowa) Dubuque, Iowa. 

Lieut. H. J. Grannis, Fayette, la. 

Serg't G. Hazlet, Allison, la. 
" Emery Clark, Woodbine, la. 
" P. R. Woods, Sibley, la. 
" P. R. Ketchum, New Ply- 
mouth, Idaho. 
" F. W. Moine, Strawberry 
Point, Iowa. 

Corp'l G. L. Durno, Springville, la. 
" John E. Kent, Oelwein, la. 
" Geo. E. Comstock,Fayette,Ia 
" Henry C. Curtis, LeMars, la. 
" W. H. Jordan, Cheney, Wash 
" J. Wilson King, Newman's 
Grove, Neb. 

" A. K. Ketchum, Clarion, la. 
" John A. Delezene, Park Rap- 
ids, Minn. 
" John W. Bysong, West Point, 
Neb. 



Ballenger, John W., Lacey, la. 
Brown, George, Woodstock, 111. 
Burroughs, Geo. A., Douglas, la. 
Bowers, Wm. H., Limestoneville,Pa 
Barton, A. H., Marshalltown, Iowa 

(Soldiers' Plome) 
Brant, Allen, (from 27th Iowa) 

Fairbanks, Iowa. 
Clark, Henry, State Center, la. 
Carmichael, James H., Volga, la. 
Conner, Samuel, Maxfield, Iowa. 
Davis, Andrew J., Berrien Springs, 

Mich. 
Delezene, Benj., Republic City, Kan 
Davis, J. C, Marshfield, Wis. 
Forbs, David, Elgin, la. 
Gilford, Simeon, Waucoma, la. 
Hazlett, John B., Sioux Falls, S. D. 
Hamlin, Wm. S., Crawford, Neb. 
Hamlin, Lyman S., Oelwein, la. 
Hendershot, Thos., Plainview, Neb. 
Hinkle, E. H., Winfield, la. 
Hartshorn, Sumner, Rea, Mich. 
Henderson, J. A., (from 27th Iowa) 

Cherokee, Iowa. 



TWELFTH IOWA 



77 



Henselbecker, Henry, Blufton, la. 
Jordan, I. L., Alton, Kansas. 
Jordan, Wm., Cheney, Wash. 
Jaques, Luther, Spokane, Wash. 
Jones, Geo. M., Eugene, Oregon. 
Jackway, G. H., (from 27th Iowa) 

Laraont, Iowa. 
Kelley, A. L., Elm Grove, Mo. 
Kent, William, Barron, Wis. 
Kelsey, E. A., (from 27th Iowa) 

Tripoli, Iowa. 
Lyons, Wm. A., Marshalltown, la. 

(Soldiers' Home) 
Lott, Lawrence, Marshalltown, la. 

(Soldiers' Home) 
Latimer, Robert Z., Fayette, la. 
Latimer, George H., Westgate, la. 
McCall, Daniel E., Culver, Kan. 

COMPi 

Capt. E. B. Soper. Emmetsburg, la 

John M. Ciark.Cedar Rapids,Ia 

Lieut. Eli King, Washington, Kan. 

Sergt. N. G. Price, Randall, Kan. 

John W. Burch, Cedar Jct,Kan 

I. G. Clark, Cedar Rapids, la. 

" R. C. Cowell, Plankinton, S. D. 

Corp'l H. W. Ross, Campbell, Neb. 

" Theo L. Prescott, 263 30th st. 

Chicago, 111. 
" Howard Pangborn,Clark,Wask 
Josiah Scott, Shellsburg, la. 
A. A. Stewart, Carthage, Mo. 
T. J. Lewis, Pittsburg Land- 
ing, Tenn. 
Bailey, Edwin H., Fredonia, Kan. 
Bailey, H. W., Manning, la. 
Blanchard, A. M., Dayton, Ohio. 

(Soldiers' Home) 
Bumgardner, Wra., Scranton, la.-R 
Bunn, A. J., Lamar, Mo. 
Butolph, E. A., Cedar Rapids, la. 
Clark, Chas. W., Cedar Rapids, la. 
Carson, John N., Pasadena, Calif. 
Cooper, H. L., Littleport, Iowa. 

(from 27th Iowa) 
Daley, James C, 512 W. 7th st.. 

Grand Island, Neb. 
Dubois, Ferd., Charter Oak, Iowa. 
Darling, John H., Azusa, Calif. 
El'gen, Harmon, Bolan, Iowa. 
Flint, Sam'l H., 1000 Kansas ave., 



McCall, John W., Nemaha, Neb. 
Mattocks, Jason L., New Era, Ore. 
Mattocks, Ross, Jennings, Okla. 
Proctor, Geo. W., (from 27th la.) 

Laurens, Iowa. 
Quivey, W. W., Pierce, Neb. 
Rodgers, Reuben F., Waucoma, la. 
Spears, N. Hart, Westgate, la. 
Smith, Jacob R., Ft. Scott, Kan. 
Stone, Daniel, Waucoma, la. 
Sykes, Orvis, Freeport, 111. 
Strong, J. P., Olds, Alberta, Canada 
Sprouls, John, Los Angeles, Calif. 

(Soldiers' Home) 
Salsbury, John, Ivanhoe, Kan. 
Tatro, Augustus, Clermont, la. 
Utter, Albert W., McCook, Neb. 
Williams, R. D., Fayette, la. 

LNY D. 

Leavenworth, Kan. 
Ferner, James D., Nevada, la. 
Grass, Harmon, 823 Seventh st. so., 

Fargo, North Dakota 
Holler, Irdill W., Copay, Calif. 
Howard, Wm. H., 959 Reany st., 

St. Paul, Minn. 
Lee, William L., Bird's Eye, Mont. 
Luse, Bentley, (from 27th Iowa) 

West Liberty, la. 
Larimour, J. C, Mill Grove, Mo. 
Minor, David W., Areata, Calif. 
Maryatt, 0. H., Del Nort, Colo. 
McElroy, M. H., Percival, la. 
Morrow, Benj. F., Georgetown, Neb 
Price, G. V., Mountain Grove, Mo. 
Quigley, D. C. (from 27th Iowa) 

Mallard, Iowa. 
Ross, Jesse H., Grant's Pass, Ore. 
Soper, Roswell K., St. James, Minn 
Sivets, Daniel, Fegley, Mo. 
Thompson, Frank D., Nevada, la. 
Trobridge, Wm. H., Des Moines, la. 

(Sub-station, E. D. M.) 
Tapening, J. M., Crab Orchard,Tenn 
VenEmmon,W.H.,Chamberlain,S.D. 
Whitneck, Wm. W., Waterloo, la. 
Watrobeck, John, 1234 So. 8th st. 

St. Louis, Mo. 
Wagner, Jasper, Kendallville. Ind. 
Weaver, John N., Sioux City, la. 
Wyatt, John J., Chetek, Wis. 



EKJIITII lilOl'NlON 



COMPANY E. 
Capt. Robt. Williams, Vancouver, Boone, R. G., Scott, Iowa. 



Wash. 
Lieut. Chas. R. Switzer, Lewis, la. 

" John W. Shumaker, Waterloo, 
Iowa. 
Sergt. Wm. H. Beckwith, Parkers- 
burg. Iowa. 

" Chas. P. Callins, Charles City, 
Iowa. 

" Chas. V. Surfus, Bristow, la. 

" J. S. Margretz, Kesley, la. 

" Harvey Smith, Sibley, N. D. 

" Allen E. Talbott, Dinsdale, la. 

" Seth J. Crowhurst, Salem, S.D. 
Corp'l J. W. Rich, Iowa City, la. 

" Thos. Boylan, Stockton, Calif. 

" Joel A. Stewart, Oregon City, 
Oregon. 

" M.V.B. Sunderlin, Janesville,Ia 

" Wm. Hamilton, Waterloo, la. 

" C. D. Morris, Canton, S. D. 

" David Creighton, Hampton, 
Iowa. 

" Sylvester Cook,Newcastle,Neb 
Bird, R. L., Hampton, Iowa. 



Belton, James, Batavia, Minn. 
Cook, Jas. P., box 114, Ponca, Neb 
Church, Nathan, Renwick, Iowa. 
DeMos.^, Thos., Bristow, Iowa. 
Eberhart, Benj. PI, Laporte City,Ia 
Early, Thos. M., Dumont, Iowa. 
Fluent, George, Alma, Wash. 
Graham, Jacob, Davenport, Iowa. 
Hay ward, C. 15., Dysart, Iowa. 
Harrison, H. J., Waterloo, Iowa. 
Large, F. A., Pittsburg Landing, 

Tenn. 
Ochs, Charles, Ackley, Iowa. 
Pomeroy, R. L. Wausaukee, Wis. 
Reed, Zeph, Fredonia, Iowa. 
Seeber, G. L., Sabula, Iowa. 
Schrack, David, Oelwein, Iowa. 
Sharp, Oliver, Grand Island, Neb. 
Strong, Ezra, Eenecia, Calif. 

(Benecia Arsenal) 
Shroger, Nathn'l, Laporte City, la. 
Sellers, John, Davis City, Iowa. 
West, D. F., Theon, Wash. 
Sawyer, E., Sioux Falls, S. D. 



COMPANY F. 



Capt. J. E. Ainsworth, Omaha, Neb 

(Merchant's National Bank) 
" J. W. Gift, 900 Main st., 

Peoria, 111. 
" John Bremner, Yankton, S. D. 
Lieut. Abner Dunham, Manchester, 

Iowa. 
Sergt. R. C. Eldridge, Niagara 

Falls, N. Y. 
" R. W. Terrill, Manchester, la. 
" Jas. F. Lee, Riverton, Oregon 
" H. M. Preston, Ft. Dodge, la. 
" C. F. Eldridge, Walnut, Kan. 
" Luther Kaltenbach, Gila Bend, 

Arizona. 
Corp'l Isaac Johnson, Lawton, Okl. 
" W. A. Nelson, Hazleton, la. 
" Frank W. Coolidge, Shosh(me, 

Idaho. 
" Justus Schneider, Rosewell, 

So. Dak. 
" John F. Lee, Dwight, Kan. 
" Geo. W. Woolridge, R^ge- 



wood, Iowa. 
Annis, George W. Lanark, 111. 
Coolidge, C. L. Central" City, Neb. 
Eaton. John J., Edge wood, la. 
Grice, A F., (from 27th Iowa) 

Doniphon, Neb. 
Hafhill. Josiah, Wood Center, la. 
Kaltenbach, Samnel, Manchester, 

Iowa. 
Kint, George, Oelwein, Iowa. 
Lyons, L. D., Marshalltown, Iowa. 

(Soldiers' Home) 
Mackey, H. W., (transfer from 27th 

Iowa) Fayette, Iowa. 
Olmsted, Henry, (from 27th Iowa) 

Independence, Iowa. 
Potter, James W-, Fredericksburg, 

Iowa. 
Ralston, Nels, Canton, S. Dak. 
Stribbling, C. C, Clifton, Tenn. 
Tibbetts, W. F., Cheney, Kan. 
Thorn, Christian, Waverlv, Iowa. 



TWELFTH IOWA 



79 



Taylor, James M., 49 E. Twelth st., 

Portland, Oregon. 
Weeden, Robt. L., Coggen, la. 



Widger, Josiali, Manchester, la. 
Wandall, Alex, (from 27th Iowa) 
Volga, Iowa. 



COMPANY G. 



Lieut. Anton E. Anderson, (Soldiers' 

Home) Marshalltown, Iowa. 

" Jas. E. Simpson, Norfolk, Neb. 

Sergt. John 0. Johnson, Hesper, la. 

Corp'l Wm. L. Winsor, Clinton, Mo 

" Anders Anderson, Albert Lea, 

Minn. 
" Oh P. Rockswold, Thoten, la. 
" Gilbert Anderson, Worden, 

Minn. 
" Harvey E. Johnson, box 161 

Evansville, Minn. 
** Henry Steen, Manassa, Va. 
" Guleck H. Houge, Albert Lea, 

Minn. 
" Warren Wait, Ida, Mo. 
" Alfred S. Fuller, Sioux Falls, 

So. Dak. 
" Fred. Rachan, Skidmore, Mo. 
Anderson, Peter, Lake Mills, la. 
Aker, D. 0., Ridgeway, Iowa. 
Christopherson, C, Hartland, Minn. 
Coon, Chas. A., Sabinal, Texas. 
Dunn, Van R., DeWitt, Neb. 
Engelbertson, Erick, Aastad, Minn. 
Fuller, Alfred, Sioux Falls, S. D. 
Gilbertson, Ole, Hot Springs, S. D. 
Gulbronson, Anton, Rothsay, Minn. 



Groves, A. H., Decorah, Iowa. 
Hanson, Hans, Lake Park, Minn. 
Hanson, Halver, Sheldon, N. Dak. 
Hulverson, Andrew, Decorah, la. 
Johnson, Nels 0., Enderline, N. D. 
Kittleson, Carl B., Norway Lake, 

Minn. 
Kirkland, G. W., Freeport, la. 
McCabe, Charles, Sherburne, Minn. 
Meader, M. E., Hesper, la. 
Moe, Peter, Springfield, Minn. 
Montgomery, Wm. (from 27th la.) 

4339 Cozen ave, St. Louis, Mo. 
Nass, G. H., Washington Prairie, la 
Oleson, Andrew H., Madison, S. D. 
Ryerson, Finger, Ashby, Minn. 
Smith, Israel K., Baraboo, Wis. 
Smith, J. K., Hesper, Iowa. 
Simmons, Roland, Lake Park, Minn 
Stalim, Lars L., 206 Bluff street, 

Sioux City, Iowa. 
Simmons, John, Flandreau, S. D. 
Skinner, Frederick, Forest City, la. 
Thompson, Thomas, Sedro, Wash. 
Thoryson, Andrew, Aastad, Minn, 
Tobiason, Andrew, Windom, Minn. 
Wheeler, Horace, Algona, la. 
West, Samuel, Red Cloud, Neb. 
Young, A. S., Nashua, la. 



COMPANY H. 



Capt. H. J. Playter, 1921 Gth st., 

n. w., Washington, D. C. 
Lieut. Robt. Fishel, Manchester, la. 
David Moreland, Chicago, 111. 
Sergt. John B. Flenniken, Battle 
Creek, Neb. 
Ralph M.Grimes, Kearney,Neb 
" Robt. W. Light, Ponca, Neb. 
" John W. Ward, 608 S. Plane 

St., Burlington, Iowa. 
" William H. Cox, Alta, la. 
Corp'l B. A. Clark, Calhoun, Mo. 
Jos. Evans, box 195,Tipton,Mo 
" Wm. H. McCune, Ruthven, la. 
" Sam'l B. Sloan, Greeley, la. 



Corp'l John S. Mason, Oak Park, Cal 
John W. Benedict, Lexington, 
^ Neb. 

Edward Winch, Arena, Wis. 
'' Alex S. McConnell, Hopkinton, 
Iowa. — R 
Briggs, H. S., Marcus, Iowa. 
Bryan, David, Pomona, Mo. 
Crisman, William, Quincy, 111, 

(Soldiers' Home) 
Crist, John W., Central City, S. D, 
Crosby, J. W., Fremont, Neb. 
Fishel, S. K., Hot Springs, Wyo. 
Frank, Joseph, Lament, Iowa. 
Garner, A. T., Farlev, Iowa. 



80 



EIGHTH UEUNJON 



Hamblin, R. E., Arcadia, Ohio. 
Henry, Phillip, Greeley, la. 
Kuhnes, James C, R F D 6, Rock 

well City, Iowa. 
Jones, David, Monona, Iowa. 
Light, Joseph A., Norfolk, Neb. 

COMPANY I. 

Clark, Frank, (from 27th Iowa) 
Humboldt, Iowa. 



Nowman, J no. G., North Platto,Neb 
Shorter, James, Shell Rock, la. 
Smith, Thos., box 97, Cassville, Mo. 
Sloan, S. B., Greeley, la. 
Stuthers, Andrew, Craig, Neb. 
Wisegarber, Wm.S.,WaInut IIill,Ill. 



Capt. Chas. L. Sumbardo, Houston, 
Texas. 

" Jas. F. Zediker, North Yakima, 
Wash. 
Lieut. Alfred L. Palmer, Seattle, 
Wash. 
" Jas. L. Thompson, Franklin, 
Iowa. 
Sergt. W. F. McCarron, (Times 
office) Chattanooga, Tenn. 
" E. B. Campbell, Armstrong, la. 
" J. Warren Cotes, Talcott, S.D. 
" John S. Ray, Naponce, Neb. 
" Wm. Starbuck, Oldham, S. D. 
" Wm. L. Fry, Scranton, la. 
" Wm. A. Cobb, Walla Walla, 
Wash. 
Corp'l Marion Rolf, Maquoketa, la. 
" Jas. Harding, Baldwin, la. 
" J. F. Wilson, Fulton, la. 
" Wm. H. Markham, Hawkeye, 

Kansas. 
" Alonzo Wells, Vincent, la. 
" Wm. Kohler, Dubuque, la. 
" Mel. B. Goodnow, Burwell, Neb 
" Michael D. Nagle, Dubuque, la 
" Samuel L. Kennedy, Cedar 

Rapids, Iowa. 
" N. E Austin, Andrew, la. 
Austin, F. M., Staplehurst, Neb. 
Allen, Eugene, Cedar Rapids, la. 
Bitner, Albert, Brayton, Iowa. 
Belknap, Albert, Fremont, Neb. 
Buchanan, Jas. C, Cedar, Rapids, la 
Butters, John F., room 48, Bolton 

block, Sioux City, la. 
Behnke, Frank, (from 27th Iowa) 

Guttenburg, la. 
Campbell, John T., Unique, la. 
Cobb, E. C, 1823 Tiraea st., Keo- 
kuk, Iowa. 
Crane, I. K., Maquoketa, la. 



Davenport, H. G., Superior, Neb. 
Devine, John, 152i N. High st., 

Columbus, Ohio. 
Dupray, Wm. H., 2630 Adel st., 

Sioux City, la. 
Eaton, Theophilus, Maquoketa, la. 
Edie, T. C, Pueblo, Colorado. 
Hatfield, Aug. W., 280 Whiton st., 

Jersey City, N. J. 
Hendricks, Wm., Winterset, la. 
Kickards, Jonas S., Memphis, Mo. 
Kerns, Peter, Reubens, Kan. 
Knudt, Carl, Postville, Iowa. 
Lewis, Peter,(from 27 Ia)Lund,Wis. 
Lewis, Levv'is, (from 27th Iowa) 

Holmes City, Minn. 
McDermott, Michael, Placid, la. 
McKinley, Janjes, Maquoketa, la. 
Nims, Weed, Maquoketa, la. 
Paup, David, Sac City, la. 
Perkins, Henry, Seattle, Wash. 
Poedch, Lorenzo, (from 27th la.) 

Postville, Iowa. 
Ragen, James, Giard, Iowa. 
Sw?,nk, John M., Muscatine, Iowa. 
Schautz, John R., 766 Savier st., 

Portland, Oregon. 
Schmidt, John, (from 27th Iowa) 

Lincoln, Neb. 
Teskey, George, Elwood, la. 
Thompson, Jas. L., Franklin, Neb. 
Wilson, Thos. J., Maquoketa, la. 
Wivinis, Michael, Dubuque, la. 
Wooley, Winchester, Mt. Pieat^ant, 

Tenn. 
Wolcott, Alden E., (from 27th la.) 

Lynixville, Wis. 
Williams, Sidney, Atlantic, la. 
Williams, S., Colfax, 111. 
Yeley, George, Clinton, la. 



TWELFTEI IOWA 



81 



COMPANY K 



Cpt T Fuller, Webster Grove, Mo 
Lieut L Webb, Cedar Rapids, la 
" J J Brown, Bloomington, Neb 
" J A Morgan, Davenport, la 
" Henry C Marriam, Coggon, la 
Sergt Richard Freeman, Spencer, 
" Wm R Mathis, Omaha, Neb 
" T E Blanchard, LeMars, Kan 
Corpl A Mosher, 520 Hays st., San 
Antonio, Tex 
" P Church, Arborville, Neb 
" E R Mathis, Omaha, Neb 
" C Hickethier, Cedar Mills, Ore 
" Aug Hickethier, Drain, Ore 
" S N Bugby, 1012 N. Fifth st. 

Minneapolis, Minn. 
*' CD Billings, Bloomington,Neb 
Bb.nchard, Ira D, Crookston. Minn 
Billings, Abraham, Luzerne, N Y 



Baldwin, Newton H, Ada, Kan 
Barden, Henry A, 278 College st. 

Portland, Ore. 
Beckner, J M, Charles City, Iowa 
Davis, W H, Des Moines, la 
DoUey, Godfrey, Coggon, la 
Dutcher, Albert, Nat'l Heme, Co- 
lumbus, 0. 
Ellison, W H, St. Edward, Neb 
Gilchrist, J N, Durham, la 
Horn, Samuel, Colesburg, la 
Kimp, William, Kirwin, Kan 
Keith, W B, Prospect, Neb 
Morehouse, P J, Los Angeles, Cal 
Mickey, Isaac, Waukon, la 
Morgan, WmB, Bloomington, Neb 
Willard, Porter H, Hopkinton, la 
Waldroff, Henry, Laporte City, la 



CORRECTIONS 

In Roster from Addresses Giyeu in this Book. 

Letters returned unclaimed marked R. 

Deceased Members, D. 



Co A— F C Cromwell, Humbolt, la; 
Job Crist, R; D V Ellsworth, D; 
G W Reed, Tarkio, Mo. 

Co B — Wesley B Bort, Foxboro, 
Wis instead of Viroqua; Samuel 
C Smith, Waukon Jet, la instead 
of N McGregor; E A Erickson, 
Center, So Dak. 

Co C— Wm A Haml-'n, Astoria, Ore 
instead of Crawford, Neb; Geo 
Brown R. 

Co D— Theo L Prescott, 5702 Erie 
St, Austin, 111. 

Co E— Wm H Beck with, R; R L 
Bird, Absarokee, Mont; Geo Flu- 
ent, R; Thomas i) Moss, D. 



Co F — T McGowan, Independence, 
la; C L Coolidge, Palmer, Neb. 
Josiah Halfhill, Wood, la. 

Co G— D Aker, D. 

Co H— Thos Smith, Cassville, Wis; 
Samuel B and S B Sloan are the 
same; John B Fleniken, R. 

Co I — Lt Jas L Thompson, Frank, 
lin. Neb instead of Iowa; James 
Ragan, R; F C Eddie, R; Wm A 
Cobb, R; Peter Kerns, R; Wm 
H Markham, D; I K Crane, D; 
Wm H Dupray, Hoquiam, Wash; 
John Devine, R; Weed Nims, 
Lyons, la, care of Capt. Geo A 
Schnider; J Warren Cotes, Clark 
So Dak instead of Talcott. 



Los Angeles, Cal., Aug. 22, 1904. 
Major D. W, Reed. 

Dear Major: — Receive my thanks, and please tender them also to 
the other members of the "dear old Twelfth" for so kindly remembering 
me with a copy of the History of the Regiment. 

Though I have grey hair now, I was but a little girl in those sad 
years of war, but I remember well, so many who came to see my dear 
father, and twice I had been in Camp Franklin. 

You all appreciate my beloved father as he did you, and to hear of 
how he was loved by the men of the Twelfth, always gives me pleasure. 

My cordial greetings to you and your dear ones. With thanks, 
yours respectfully, Miss M. Brodtbeck. 

854 Douglass st., Los Angeles, Cal. 



82 EinilTfl i;i:( NI()\ 

Reminiscences of S. C. Beck in Prison Life. 

Bv G. E. CoMsrocK, Co. C. liiiii Iowa Ini'antky. 

"We were schoolniales at college ( Lrpper Iowa University) in 18(51 when 
on that fatal day the Jirst gun iiied on Ft. Sumter went like an electric 
sh(Kk- all through the North, tiring the hearts of all loyal men to spring 
to the call of Our Father Abraham for three hundred thousand men. 
S. C. Jieck, of Waverly, Iowa, was one of that number. 

Here began the devolopement of the possibilities of stalwart young 
manhood as varied as the tints of the rainbow. It was while passing 
through the crucible of war that some noble characters came forth from 
the quiet,, unassuming walks of life and were made to shine forth as the 
nwnday sun. Xot all the deeds of valor of true, noble manhood will ever 
be written. God alone will know. "To tiie man that carried a gun" all 
praise be given, with all due respect to the "Line" from the least to the 
greatest. Yet, the work to be done, the victory must be, won by the man 
who carried the gun. The virtues of my friend were innny, the defects 
few. He counted not his life dear to himself; he placed it a sacrifice on 
the altar of his count ry. AYhat he has sutfered no one but God can knf)W. 
The following shows his unselrlshncss: 

One of our comrades and one, too, of that same band of schoolmates 
that enlisted with us in Fayette. Iowa, was Hon. H. C. Curtis, now of 
LeMars. Dr. C. C. Parker, tlien surgeon of our regiment (12th Iowa In- 
fantry) and still living, bless iiis memory, notified Capt. Warner, of our 
company, that (Jurtis, of his company, was down with the smallpox, that 
he must make a detail and carry him to the pest hospital. No sooner 
had this news come to Beck than he said to Capt. Warner, "Let me take 
him and take care of him." And this strong, brave, big-hearted man 
went to Curtis, took him in his arms and carried him to the hospital and 
there remained and nur.sed him thrtiugh a long and severe sickness to 
health, and now Curtis says. "Jf it had not been f(tr Beck's c<-ii.stant and 
tend<,'r care I would not have been alive today." And so I miyht eniiuie- 
rale many such instances which characterized, while in the army, as well 
as up to the last day of his lite. 

One incident of my army life seemed to cement our friendship in sui-ii 
a bond of love as time only can ettace and causes me to mourn today 
as Uty a brother. We were prisoners of war and had been for two months. 
We liad suffered from exposure to all kinds of weather, wit hout l)lankets 
or siicller, hungry and sick at heart, receiving the jeers and taunts of 
(Hir enemy instead of bhmkcts and bread. Many sickened and died. 
Beck was on the sick list in Montgomery, Ala., prison. 

The startling and joyous news came tons that we were to be ex- 
changed and released tr(.m prison. Of course j'ou can but imagine what 
emotions of joy tilled all our lieartsat the thought of once more being 
free. The cars C(»ulda"t run fast enough: time seemed to drag, we were 
so anxious. 

Finally we found ourselves on a small island in the Tennesee river, 
some sixty miles from Chattanooga, some tifteen hundred in number, 
and from there we were sent down the river in small steamb.oais. The 



TWELFTH IOWA 83 

water being low. The boat could only take five hundred at a trip. It 
fell to our lot to be the last five huudred, after three days of waiting 
without a morsel of anything- to eat save mulberries, and we lived in 
the trees. This was all borne without a murmur, because our hopes 
were high and our expectations so great we knew it would soon be over. 
Our time came to go and we boarded the boat in great glee. Even the 
sick counted not their sickness. We cut loose our boat and steamed 
down stream to what we supposed our liberty, friends and home. We 
arrived at the place of delivery; we saw the flag of truce; we saw "Old 
Glory"— how glorious it did look to us— and our boys in blue on the shore! 
1 would that I could portray to your mind, dear reader, the undounded 
emotion that filled our very souls. My heart beats faster, my eyes fill 
with tears today, the ;51st of May, 1904, as they did forty-two years ago, 
this very day. When at this extremely high state of emotion we were 
called to halt in midstream and not allowed to land. Still we did not 
dream of what was hanging over us. We supposed it to be the pre- 
liminary work of exchange, when lo! the word came to us that General 
Mitchell, who was then inarching on to Chattanooga, could not receive 
i-s. nnd we must go back to prison and slowly starving death. 

Remember the three days" fast had not prepared us to receive fliis 
with any good grace. The emaciated and enfeebled cf)ndition of "our 
men" made it one of the most distracting scenes it was ever my lot to 
witness. Up to this time Beck had never failed. Now his time had 
come. Weak, sick, discouraged, starvation staring us in the face, back 
to the prison dens our doom. The cloud was dark, "the sun did refuse 
to shine." Our die was cast, onr fate was sealed, our trials had just be- 
gun. Four and one-half months more in Macon, Georgia, and Libby 
prison, brought the remnant t h.at was left home, leaving our pathway 
strewn with our dead that had fallen by the way, and the remnant that 
survives to this day, have suffered, and will to the end of their lives 
suffer, from the effects of starvation and exposure while in prison. 

The "lK)nd of love" between Beck and I that we supposed had been so 
strong and great, really had its beginning right here. He was sick; I 
was well. It was my turn to minister: his to receive. What provision 
was on the boat, for the crew was meagre, was divided among our five 
hundred. P>eck's share was a small greasy bone (no meat), mine a 
tablespoonful of cornaieal. I missed Beck. Upon looking about, I found 
he had crawled upon the brick encasement Xo the engine boiler wlsere it 
was warm (evidently to die). Against his body lay this bone, as his 
share. I called to him but no reply. I took hold to arouse him only to 
find him almost gmie. I saw at once it was for lack of nourishment and 
the bone would notsuttice. I at once hastened to the engine room, pro- 
cured a cup, took one-third of my precious spoonful of meal and drew 
from the boiler hot water, making a gruel (no salt). I roused him and 
almost forced him to take it, he seemingly unconscious of what T was 
doing. This I repeated three times and my precious meal was gone, but 
Beck was saved. The morning brought us to rations and back to life. 
These are the ties that bound us, the severance of which causes me to 
mourn as for a brother. The Father has said, it is enough, come up 
higher. Died at Waverly, Iowa, May 27, 1904: aged sixty-six 3'ears. 



84 EIGHTH fJKlNIOX 

Obituaru of Licit. J. E. Simpson. 

As we are about closing the publication of our pamplet comes the 
sad news of the death of Comrade Simpson, of Co. G., at Norfolk, Neb., 
Sept. 23, 1904, of cancer of the stomach. Interment at Decorah, Iowa, 
Sept. 26. Services befitting the occasion were held in the M. E. church 
attended by a large concourse of people. The last funeral rites were 
performed at the grave by the members of Col. Hughes Post of Deco- 
rah, of which Comrade Simpson was a charter member and to which he 
clung as his home post. 

In the death of Lieut. Simpson the members of the I2th lose one 
of their most congenial comrades, his dear wife and son one of the 
kindest of husbands and fathers. His genial personality, generous good 
nature and sympathetic qualities made him a delightful companion and 
faithful father. His friendships were warm and lasting and he will be 
mourned by a far-reaching circle of loving friends and comrades. 

G. E. CoMSTOCK, Sec. 

Later — Lieut. Simpson's wife died, a week later, of paralysis, 
brought on by care of her husband during his illness. G. E. C. 

Special Mention. 

I take this opportunity to make special mention and return thanks 
on behalf of the Regiment, to Henry H. Kitson, of Boston, Mass., de- 
signer and sculptor of the Iowa Memorial monument for Vicksburg Park 
for his kindness and courtesy in giving us the photograph of his beauti- 
ful work, (before its completion) to be erected in the near future. To 
Edmund H. Prior, of Postville, Iowa, designer, sculptor and contractor 
of the Regimental and Brigade monuments, at the Vicksburg Park, for 
the use of his half tone cut of our Brigade monument. 

It is said "the rain falls on the just and on the unjust." Hence we 
would also return thanks to E. C. Kropp, of Milwaukee, Wis., for his 
selfish, penuriousness and unpatriotic cussedness, in refusing to loan us 
the use of his half tone cut of the Iowa State Monument at Shiloh, hav- 
ing been assisted to obtain the same by one of our own members: for, 
by so doing, by "eternal vigilance" "which is the price of liberty," we 
have secured one of our own. 

To all the railroads in Iowa, and especially the Chicago Milwaukee 
& St. Paul and Rock Island System for rates and special accommodations. 

To C. F. Paine & Co., publishers, and all the oftice force. Too 
much cannot be said of them for the interest manifested, kindness, 
courteous treatment, patience exercised (even beyond the limit); in the 
excellence of the work, as well as the very reasonable terms of their 
contract. We are fully satisfied. 

G. E. CoMSTOCK, Secretary. 



TWELFTH IOWA 85 

Addenda. 

Comrades: — The long looked for and almost forgotten Reunion 
Pamphlet is about to appear. Thinking perhaps this might, and in all 
probability will be the last, I have spared no pains or expense to make 
it worthy of the cause it represents, as well as of one of the very best 
Regiments that went to the front in 61, returning in 66. 

Victorious 'tis true, but all along through the years, our pathway 
is marked by the graves of our beloved comrades, on battlefield, in 
prison and hospital, many buried in unknown graves, all, that "our coun- 
try might be one and inseparable." 

My personal duties have been fully all that I should care for. The 
extra work this has brought me, has borne upon me heavily until at 
times, it has seemed impossible to finish. Being separated so far from 
the other members of the committee has made consultation almost im- 
possible. Hence, whatever of criticism, defects or errors, appear, 
charge them up to the "Committee of the Whole House," your humble 
Secretary. 

The embellishment of our phamplet with half tone cuts of our high- 
ly esteemed and honored friend and comrades, Gov. Larrabee, Speaker 
Henderson, and our beloved Col. "Jack" Stibbs, as well as the State, 
Regimental and Brigade monuments, on the Battlefields of Shiloh and 
Vicksburg, the Lincoln monument and Henderson statue make it, (for 
those interested,) a Souvenir and to us a cherished memory of the past, 
as well. By "eternal perseverance" mixed with j^^ood, honest toil, we 
have been able to bring forth this "Thing of beauty" and I hope "a joy 
forever." 

It is the intention to send a pamphlet to every surviving member 
of our regiment. If you see this, and don't receive one, send me your 
address. To all who have contributed to the publishing fund, this is 
free. Also to all who feel they cannot afford it. To cover the extra 
expense of our cuts and postage, it will be necessary to charge forty 
cents per copy. We desire that widows, sons and daughters of deceased 
members shall have a copy. After these are served, if any remain, they 
will be on sale to the interested public, at same price. Order from 

G. E. CoMSTOCK, Secretary, 

Fayette, Iowa. 

Died Oct. 28, 1904, Christian Thorn, Co. F., at Waverly, Iowa. 
On page 24, 6th line, five days instead of fine days. 



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